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.