Description
Sink your fork into these irresistible Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes—an easy recipe that turns simple pantry ingredients into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Perfect for quick dinners, elegant side dishes, or healthy snack ideas, these juicy tomatoes are packed with herbed rice and melty mozzarella cheese. Ideal for anyone looking for comforting yet nutritious food ideas, this dish fits right into your weeknight dinner rotation or weekend brunch. Whether you need vegetarian dinner ideas or savory breakfast options, this recipe delivers in both flavor and style.
Ingredients
6 large ripe tomatoes
1 cup cooked white rice
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice off the tops and carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds.
3. Lightly salt the inside of the tomatoes and place them upside down on paper towels to drain excess moisture.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and soft, about 2–3 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed garlic and onions, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
6. Pat the tomato shells dry and fill each one with the rice and cheese mixture, leaving space on top.
7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan over each stuffed tomato. Add a pinch of dried oregano or basil if desired.
8. Arrange tomatoes in a baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes to crisp the top.
10. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley or basil, and serve warm.
Notes
For firmer results, always salt and drain the tomatoes before stuffing.
Add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling for extra texture.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed tomato
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg