Baked Tomatoes With Mozzarella And Parmesan {VIDEO!} Recipe

This delightful Tomato Mozzarella Bake exhibits a perfect harmony of sweet roasted tomatoes layered with fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bursting with aromatic basil and seasoned with salt and pepper, the dish is an ultimate Baked Tomatoes With Mozzarella And Parmesan treat that brilliantly blends comfort with vibrant Italian flavors.

I love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into a dish that feels luxurious. I discovered this Baked Tomatoes With Mozzarella And Parmesan recipe when looking for an easy and nutritious appetizer that packs a punch of flavor.

Using 4 medium ripe tomatoes that are halved, 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese sliced neatly, and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, i found the balance between creamy and tangy. Adding a handful of fresh basil leaves and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil brings in a natural sweetness and freshness that elevates the whole dish.

A sprinkle of salt and black pepper finishes it off perfectly. In about 15 minutes, you end up with a dish that is reminiscent of classic tomato dishes like Roasted Tomatoes And Mozzarella or even a Tomato Mozzarella Bake.

This fresh tomato recipe is not only easy but also a nutritious delight that i cant get enough of.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe for a few reasons. First, I love how quickly it comes together – seriously, it’s ready in 15 minutes so I can whip it up even on crazy busy days. Second, the mix of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil creates a flavor combo thats both simple and amazing; i feel like each bite shows off its fresh, authentic taste. Third, the way the cheese melts and turns golden adds that perfect touch of comfort and gooey deliciousness that i just can’t resist. Lastly, its super flexible; you can serve it as an appetizer or a side dish and even impress your friends with something that looks and tastes gourmet without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• Ripe tomatoes provide abundant vitamins, fiber, and a tangy sweet flavor to the dish.
• Fresh mozzarella adds creaminess, protein, and a rich, mild flavor while offering a soft texture.
• Grated Parmesan delivers a salty, sharp note, enhancing depth, umami intensity, and savory appeal.
• Fresh basil offers fragrant, herbal relief and a burst of delicious, uplifting freshness.
• Extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy fats with a smooth, fruity finish that enriches flavors.
• Salt brightens the flavors but should be used sparingly so it doesn’t overpower other taste.
• Black pepper adds a subtle spicy kick and depth without overwhelming the dish’s natural flavors.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F so its nice and hot when you put the tomatoes in.

2. Cut your tomatoes in half and place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil all over the tomatoes and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on each half.

4. Lay a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of every tomato half, trying to cover as much of the surface as you can.

5. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese generously over the mozzarella and tomatoes.

6. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and slightly golden.

7. Keep an eye on it cause the cheese can burn real quick if you leave it too long.

8. Once out of the oven, scatter a handful of whole fresh basil leaves on top for that extra burst of flavor.

9. Let the dish cool for a couple of minutes before serving and enjoy your oven roasted tomatoes with mozzarella and Parmesan!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven – used for preheating and baking, which helps lock in flavors and nutrients during cooking
2. Baking sheet – a flat tray that supports even roasting of the tomatoes
3. Parchment paper – prevents sticking and helps keep the tomatoes from burning on the bottom
4. Sharp knife – essential for safely cutting the tomatoes in half
5. Cutting board – provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing
6. Measuring spoons or cup – needed to accurately measure the extra virgin olive oil and seasoning
7. Cheese grater – for finely grating the Parmesan cheese over the dish
8. Spatula – useful for transferring the roasted tomatoes from the baking sheet to a serving dish

FAQ

Baked Tomatoes With Mozzarella And Parmesan {VIDEO!} Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of fresh mozzarella, you can try using bocconcini or even a mild provolone cheese if you want a twist.
• If you don’t have Parmesan, pecorino Romano or Asiago are good substitutes and add a nice sharp flavor.
• Out of extra virgin olive oil? Avocado oil is a solid replacement that still delivers a rich taste.
• For fresh basil leaves, dried basil works in a pinch – just use a little less since it’s a bit more concentrated.

Pro Tips

1. Try to use the ripest tomatoes you can find since they have more flavor and juice; if your tomatoes are a bit on the firm side, letting them sit out for a day at room temperature can really improve their taste.
2. When you arrange the mozzarella on the tomatoes, make sure not to overlap too much; this helps the cheese melt evenly and prevents it from burning in spots.
3. If you wanna add a little tangy kick, consider drizzling a tiny bit of balsamic vinegar over the dish after it comes out of the oven; it adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor.
4. Don’t rush letting the dish cool for a few minutes before you dig in; giving it a moment to set helps all the flavors mix together better, making the whole bite more balanced.