Baked Stuffed Tomatoes: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes: Prepare to be amazed by this vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms ordinary tomatoes into a culinary masterpiece! Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, tender tomato bursting with a savory filling – a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience.

The concept of stuffing vegetables has roots in various cultures around the world, each adding its unique twist and ingredients. While the exact origins of baked stuffed tomatoes are difficult to pinpoint, similar dishes have been enjoyed for centuries in Mediterranean and European cuisines, often utilizing seasonal produce and readily available ingredients. It’s a testament to resourceful cooking and the ability to create something extraordinary from simple components.

What makes this dish so universally appealing? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling to your liking, using anything from rice and herbs to ground meat and vegetables. The combination of the sweet, slightly acidic tomato with the savory filling is simply irresistible. Plus, baked stuffed tomatoes are relatively easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve to guests. The soft, yielding texture of the tomato contrasts beautifully with the heartier filling, creating a delightful sensory experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, both work great)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned are fantastic)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping

Preparing the Tomatoes:

1. First, we need to prepare our tomatoes. Wash them thoroughly and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top of each tomato, about 1/2 inch down. Don’t throw those tops away! We’ll use them later.
2. Now, gently scoop out the pulp and seeds from each tomato using a spoon. Be careful not to pierce the sides or bottom of the tomatoes. We want them to hold their shape.
3. Place the scooped-out tomato pulp in a bowl. We’ll use some of this in our filling to add extra tomato flavor.
4. Lightly salt the inside of each tomato shell. This will help draw out any excess moisture and season them from the inside out. Turn the tomatoes upside down on a wire rack or paper towels to drain while we prepare the filling. This step is crucial to prevent soggy stuffed tomatoes.

Making the Filling:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy stuffed tomatoes!
4. Now, add about 1/2 cup of the reserved tomato pulp to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pulp has reduced slightly. This will concentrate the tomato flavor in our filling.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. This is important so the egg doesn’t cook when we add it.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, and the lightly beaten egg.
7. Season the filling generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the tomatoes are already lightly salted, so don’t overdo it. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.

Stuffing and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Now it’s time to stuff those tomatoes! Using a spoon, carefully fill each tomato shell with the sausage and rice mixture. Pack the filling in firmly, but don’t overstuff them, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
3. Place the tomato tops back on top of the stuffed tomatoes. This helps to keep the filling moist and adds a nice presentation.
4. Arrange the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. You can lightly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking, but it’s usually not necessary.
5. If you’re using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle a little bit on top of each tomato. This will create a lovely melted cheese topping.
6. Pour about 1/2 inch of water into the bottom of the baking dish. This will help to create steam and keep the tomatoes moist during baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through and lightly browned. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your tomatoes and your oven.
8. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth!

Serving Suggestions:

These baked stuffed tomatoes are delicious served as a main course or as a side dish. They pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty loaf of bread. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra richness.

Tips and Variations:

• Meat Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of sausage, you can substitute ground beef, ground turkey, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese would be delicious.
• Herb Variations: You can use different herbs to customize the flavor of the filling. Oregano, thyme, or rosemary would all be great additions.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little bit of heat.
• Add Vegetables: Sauté some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic for extra vegetables in the filling.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: Baked stuffed tomatoes can be frozen for later. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Troubleshooting:

• Tomatoes are too watery: Make sure you drain the tomatoes well after scooping out the pulp. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling to help absorb excess moisture.
• Filling is too dry: Add a little bit more tomato pulp or a tablespoon of olive oil to the filling to moisten it.
• Tomatoes are burning: Cover the baking dish with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent the tomatoes from burning.
• Filling is not cooked through: Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the filling. You can also increase the baking time slightly to ensure the filling is heated through.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-5g

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a classic for a reason! The combination of savory sausage, flavorful rice, and juicy tomatoes is simply irresistible. The breadcrumbs add a nice texture, and the Parmesan cheese provides a salty, cheesy flavor. The fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a touch of freshness. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked rice!

A Little History:

Stuffed vegetables have been a part of cuisines around the world for centuries. The practice of stuffing vegetables likely originated as a way to make the most of available ingredients and create a hearty and filling meal. Tomatoes, in particular, are well-suited for stuffing due to their shape and size. This recipe is a variation on a classic Italian-American dish, often made with ground meat, rice, and herbs. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and each family has their own unique twist on it.

Serving Size:

This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. You can easily adjust the recipe to make more or fewer servings, depending on your needs.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for baked stuffed tomatoes as much as I do! It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are so much more than just a side dish; they’re a vibrant, flavorful experience that I truly believe you need to try. From the juicy, slightly tangy tomatoes to the savory, perfectly seasoned filling, every bite is a delightful explosion of textures and tastes. I’ve made these for countless gatherings, and they’re always a hit, even with the pickiest eaters!

But why are these a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, they’re surprisingly easy to make. Seriously! Most of the work is just prepping the ingredients, and then your oven does the rest. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Need a vegetarian option for dinner? These are perfect. Looking for a light lunch? Two stuffed tomatoes will do the trick. Want to impress your guests at your next potluck? Bring these, and watch them disappear!

Speaking of versatility, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. I love serving these alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices.

But don’t feel limited to my suggestions! Feel free to get creative with the filling. If you’re a meat lover, try adding some cooked ground beef or Italian sausage. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking for a cheesier experience, sprinkle some extra mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before baking. You could even experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Sun-dried tomatoes added to the filling would be amazing! Or perhaps some chopped olives for a Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are truly endless!

Another variation I’ve tried and loved is using different types of tomatoes. While Roma tomatoes are my go-to for their size and firmness, you could also use beefsteak tomatoes for a larger, more substantial serving. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Heirloom tomatoes, with their unique colors and flavors, would also be a stunning choice for a special occasion.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe for Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, it will become a regular in your rotation. It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of these stuffed tomatoes. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you come up with your own creative twist? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe. I know you’ll love it as much as I do. Let me know what you think!