Looking for a deliciously cheesy dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than these mouthwatering Three Cheese Baked Tomatoes! Bursting with flavor and drizzled with the essence of fresh basil, this Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. Perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer, these baked tomatoes are simple to prepare and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your dinner table with this irresistible treat that combines the creaminess of ricotta, the gooeyness of mozzarella, and the rich, savory notes of Parmesan – all baked to perfection!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top of each tomato, creating a flat surface.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and inner flesh of the tomatoes, creating a hollow cavity. Be careful not to pierce the bottom or sides of the tomato.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Add chopped fresh basil to the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into each hollowed tomato, filling them to the top. Make sure the filling is packed gently but completely.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of each stuffed tomato.
- Place the filled tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are standing upright and not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let the tomatoes rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burning.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or light appetizer.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for large, ripe tomatoes that are firm and not overly soft. This ensures they hold their shape during baking and provide a satisfying bite.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses you love! A bit of goat cheese or feta can add a unique twist to the filling.
- Herb Infusion: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding other herbs like oregano or thyme to the cheese mixture, enhancing the Italian essence.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Keep an eye on your tomatoes while they bake. The goal is to achieve a tender tomato with a golden, bubbly cheese topping, so adjust the baking time as needed.
- Serve with Style: For a beautiful presentation, serve your baked tomatoes on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of elegance.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
