Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion : The combination of salty bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy tomatoes is irresistible.
- Cheesy Goodness : Melty cheese ties all the flavors together in a rich, satisfying way.
- Versatile : Serve it warm or at room temperature—it’s great for any meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep the components ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday spreads.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Crust:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
- 6 slices bacon , chopped
- 1 large onion , thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (if needed for caramelizing onions)
- 2 medium tomatoes , sliced (or cherry tomatoes halved)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper , to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the edges. Trim and crimp as desired.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
- In the same skillet with the bacon grease (add olive oil if needed), sauté the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the onions.
- Arrange the tomato slices (or cherry tomato halves) in an overlapping layer on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the tomatoes.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 5: Make the Cheesy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and dried thyme until smooth. Dollop the mixture evenly over the top of the pie.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the pie for 30–35 minutes , or until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the filling is heated through.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
- Bacon Grease Magic : Using the bacon grease to caramelize the onions adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Layered Flavors : Each component—bacon, onions, tomatoes, and cheese—builds a symphony of savory goodness.
- Buttery Crust : The flaky pie crust provides the perfect base to hold all the delicious fillings.
Variations to Try
- Add Greens : Stir in fresh spinach or arugula for a pop of color and freshness.
- Spice It Up : Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use a gluten-free pie crust for a GF-friendly version.
- Veggie-Friendly : Skip the bacon and use roasted eggplant or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Herb Upgrade : Swap thyme for rosemary, basil, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Soggy Crust : Blind bake the crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling if you’re worried about sogginess.
- Tomato Tip : Pat the tomato slices dry with paper towels to reduce excess moisture.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with mimosas, coffee, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside other savory dishes like quiches, tarts, or charcuterie boards for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and effortless indulgence, offering a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. With its customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made savory pies or experimented with bacon and tomato recipes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.
Enjoy!