Southern Tomato Basil Pie | Cajun 911 Cuisine
This refined Southern Tomato Basil Pie layers juicy tomatoes, caramelized onions, and fresh herbs beneath a rich cheese topping enhanced with lemon olive oil, lemon zest, and generous amounts of basil and parsley. Bright, aromatic, and deeply comforting, this is Southern cooking finished with Cajun 911 elegance.
INGREDIENTS
PIE BASE
1 deep-dish pie crust, pre-baked
Optional: 4–6 small pre-baked pie shells for individual pies
3–4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
1/2 tsp salt, for draining tomatoes
1 cup caramelized onions
1/2 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped, for layering
Black pepper, to taste
Optional 1/4 cup sliced green onions
CHEESE & HERB TOPPING
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 Tbsp lemon olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning, optional
1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prep the Tomatoes
Lay tomato slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let drain 20–30 minutes, then pat dry thoroughly.
2. Pre-Bake the Crust
Bake the deep-dish crust at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. If using small shells, warm them 3–4 minutes to crisp.
3. Layer the Tomato Filling
Layer the crust with drained tomatoes, caramelized onions, fresh basil, black pepper, and optional green onions. Repeat layers if needed for depth.
4. Make the Cheese–Herb–Lemon Topping
Mix cheddar, mozzarella, mayonnaise, lemon olive oil, lemon zest, optional Cajun seasoning, basil, and parsley until creamy and well blended.
5. Assemble the Pie
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomato layers.
6. Bake
Bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until golden, bubbling, and set. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Mini pies bake 18–22 minutes.
SERVING IDEAS
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Serve with a simple herb green salad
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Pair with grilled shrimp, chicken, or fish
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Add a cucumber and onion salad
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Finish with a light balsamic glaze
NOTES
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Draining tomatoes ensures a firm, sliceable pie
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Lemon zest brightens the rich cheese topping
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Caramelized onions deepen the savory flavor
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Extra herbs add freshness and color
RECIPE PAIRINGS AND HELPFUL LINKS
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Pair with Southern sides and vegetables
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Serve alongside Bayou seafood or grilled proteins
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