cherry tomatoes, cheese

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield

• Servings: 6
• Yield: One 9-inch baking dish

Ingredients

For the Tomato Base

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Layer

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra creaminess)

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Oven mitts
• Serving spoon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes.

Place them in a mixing bowl and toss with the olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.

Spread the seasoned tomatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Scatter the torn fresh mozzarella evenly over the tomatoes.

Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

If using cream cheese, add small dollops across the top for an extra creamy texture.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and released their juices and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

For a beautifully golden top, switch the oven to broil for the final 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh basil, chopped parsley, freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.

Serve warm with crusty bread, toasted baguette slices, crackers, cooked pasta, or grilled chicken.

Tips for Success

• Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Fresh mozzarella creates a creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a savory finish.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish so the tomatoes roast instead of steam.
• Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
• Broil briefly for an extra golden cheese topping.
• Allow the dish to rest before serving so the juices can settle.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Style

Add sliced black olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh oregano.

Spinach and Cheese

Stir in 2 cups of fresh baby spinach during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Bacon Tomato Bake

Top with crispy crumbled bacon just before serving.

Italian Sausage Version

Add cooked Italian sausage for a heartier main course.

Pesto Tomato Bake

Swirl a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the tomatoes before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This baked tomato and cheese dish pairs wonderfully with:

• Toasted sourdough bread
• Garlic bread
• Grilled chicken
• Roasted salmon
• Cooked penne or spaghetti
• Creamy polenta
• Rice pilaf
• Mixed green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Charcuterie boards

It also makes a delicious topping for baked potatoes or a filling for warm sandwiches.

Storage Instructions

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes. Grape tomatoes work just as well and hold their shape slightly better during baking.

What cheeses work best?

Mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, fontina, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère all melt beautifully and complement the roasted tomatoes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish several hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I freeze it?

Freezing is not recommended because tomatoes and fresh cheeses can release excess moisture when thawed, affecting the texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Simply serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 245
• Protein: 14 g
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
• Total Sugars: 5 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Potassium: 360 mg
• Calcium: 320 mg
• Iron: 1 mg
• Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value