🥕 Ingredients

📋 Complete List

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8 large ripe tomatoes, cored and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds, preferably heirloom varieties for best flavor
2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced into perfect rings for even cooking and presentation
4 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced or pressed through a garlic press
2 cups of seasoned Italian breadcrumbs, preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought
3 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided for layering and topping
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, carefully removed from stems
2 teaspoons sea salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream for added richness and moisture

📝 Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the middle for optimal heat distribution

Thoroughly butter a 9x13 inch casserole dish, making sure to coat all sides and corners completely

Layer half of the sliced tomatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish, slightly overlapping them for even coverage

Sprinkle half of the sliced onions, minced garlic, and fresh herbs over the tomato layer

Add a layer of one-third of the breadcrumbs and one-third of the Parmesan cheese

Drizzle with half of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper

Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, finishing with breadcrumbs and cheese on top

Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top of the casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes until bubbling around the edges

Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy

🍳 Kitchen Tools

9x13 inch glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution
Sharp chef's knife for precise tomato and onion slicing
Box grater for fresh Parmesan cheese
Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions

💡 Chef's Tips

Select perfectly ripe tomatoes that are firm but yielding slightly when pressed for the best flavor and texture

Salt the tomato slices and let them drain on paper towels for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent a watery casserole

Use day-old bread processed into crumbs for a more authentic and textured topping

Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving to help the layers set properly

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips

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If the casserole seems too watery, increase final baking time without foil to reduce liquid

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For too-brown topping, cover with foil until the last 5 minutes of baking

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If the casserole is too dry, add a bit more cream or stock between layers

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For uneven cooking, rotate the dish halfway through baking time

🔄 Recipe Variations

Italian Style: Add layers of fresh mozzarella and prosciutto between tomato layers

Provençal Version: Include herbes de Provence and layered eggplant

Greek Inspired: Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives

Mexican Fusion: Include layers of corn, black beans, and Mexican cheese blend

🥗 Healthy Alternatives

Replace breadcrumbs with crushed almond meal or ground cauliflower for a low-carb option

Use light cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream to reduce calories

Substitute part of the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a lighter version

Add layers of zucchini or eggplant to increase the vegetable content and nutrition

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant tomato casserole alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal

Pair with a fresh arugula salad dressed with light vinaigrette for a perfect contrast

Offer crusty whole grain bread on the side to soak up the flavorful juices

Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving

📊 Nutrition Facts

285

Calories

12g

Protein

18g

Carbs

19g

Fat

🥗 Suitable Diets

Vegetarian-friendly main dish or side dish

Can be adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based cheese alternatives

Gluten-free possible when using alternative breadcrumbs

Mediterranean diet compliant with healthy fats and fresh vegetables

🎨 Presentation Ideas

Fresh basil chiffonade scattered over the top just before serving

Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese added while still hot

Edible flowers like nasturtiums for special occasions

📦 Storage & Conservation

Store leftover tomato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheat individual portions in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15 minutes

Avoid freezing this casserole as the tomatoes can become mushy when thawed

Let the casserole come to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation

♻️ Leftover Ideas

Transform leftovers into a delicious pasta sauce by blending and heating gently

Use as a flavorful base for homemade pizza or flatbread

Layer into sandwiches with fresh mozzarella for a gourmet lunch

Incorporate into a frittata or egg casserole for breakfast

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not properly draining the tomatoes, which can result in a soggy casserole

Using pre-grated cheese instead of freshly grated, which affects melting quality

Skipping the resting period after baking, causing the layers to fall apart when serving

Using unripe tomatoes that lack flavor and proper texture when cooked

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? ▶

While fresh is preferred, you can use well-drained canned tomatoes in winter months

How do I prevent my casserole from being too watery? ▶

Salt and drain your tomatoes beforehand, and don't skip the resting period after baking

Can I make this ahead of time? ▶

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and bake just before serving

What's the best cheese substitute for dairy-free diets? ▶

Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives work well in this recipe

⭐ Customer Reviews

Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jul 4, 2025

The perfect way to use summer tomatoes! This casserole was absolutely delicious.

Michael P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jun 22, 2025

Great flavor but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste. Will definitely make again.

Lisa R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jul 18, 2025

This reminded me of my grandmother's recipe. Pure comfort food!

David K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jul 11, 2025

Excellent side dish for our family barbecue. Everyone wanted the recipe.