The Ultimate Ina Garten Basil Scalloped Tomatoes Recipe

Basil scalloped tomatoes represent a vibrant summer dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Garden-fresh tomatoes burst with intense flavor when roasted alongside crispy bread cubes.

Aromatic basil leaves weave a fragrant layer of complexity throughout this rustic side dish.

The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes creates an irresistible medley that dances across your palate.

Cheese and herbs mingle to elevate ordinary tomatoes into something extraordinary, offering a memorable dining experience.

Skilled home cooks can easily recreate this elegant recipe with just a few pantry staples.

Rich, golden-brown edges and bubbling textures promise a mouthwatering result that will impress dinner guests: dive in and savor every delectable bite.

Cooking Up Basil Scalloped Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Kitchen

Grab a large mixing bowl, cutting board, and baking dish. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line up your ingredients on the countertop.

Step 2: Create Crispy Bread Base

• Bread cubes
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until each cube is perfectly coated and seasoned.

Step 3: Craft Tangy Tomato Mixture

• Fresh tomatoes (chopped)
• Brown sugar
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Combine tomatoes with brown sugar, olive oil, and basil in a separate bowl. Stir gently to blend flavors.

Step 4: Layer and Assemble

Lightly coat your baking dish with olive oil. Spread the seasoned bread cubes as the first layer. Pour the vibrant tomato mixture evenly over the bread.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously across the top, creating a golden, crispy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and tomatoes bubble with excitement.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Let the dish rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Serve warm as a delightful side or light main course alongside a fresh green salad.

Tomato Tips for a Richer Bake

• Choose Vibrant Tomatoes: Select ripe, colorful tomatoes at peak season for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Customize Cheese Profile: Experiment with different cheese combinations like a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella for added depth.
• Elevate with Protein: Transform the dish into a complete meal by incorporating crispy pancetta or grilled chicken.
• Herb Boost: Fresh basil is key, but try adding a sprinkle of thyme or oregano for extra aromatic complexity.
• Prep Smart: Slice tomatoes and prepare ingredients earlier in the day to streamline your cooking process and reduce last-minute stress.

How to Store Tomato-Based Dishes Right

• Refrigeration Magic: Seal leftover Basil Scalloped Tomatoes in an airtight glass container to lock in freshness. Glass containers prevent flavor absorption and maintain the dish's original taste better than plastic alternatives. Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation that could make the topping soggy.
• Freezer Preservation: Transfer cooled tomato dish to a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Wrap additional layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Label container with date and contents to track storage time. Properly sealed, the dish maintains quality for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Technique: Thaw frozen Basil Scalloped Tomatoes overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Creative Twists for Tomato Lovers

• Herbal Garden Remix: Replace basil with a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired variation.
• Spicy Southwest Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty, heat-packed version.
• Mediterranean Olive Fusion: Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile that brings tangy richness to the classic recipe.
• Smoky Bacon Infusion: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits between bread layers and on top for a savory, smoky dimension that elevates the original dish's complexity.

Wrapping Up the Tomato Bake Talk

Ina Garten’s basil scalloped tomatoes create Mediterranean magic on plates worldwide.

Summer gardens whisper delicious secrets through this remarkable recipe.

Ripe tomatoes meld with crispy bread cubes, releasing complex flavor profiles.

Parmesan cheese adds luxurious depth to each carefully crafted bite.

Garden-fresh ingredients dance harmoniously in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

When summer produce calls, you’ll answer with this irresistible dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences – share this recipe, comment below, and spread delectable joy with fellow cooking enthusiasts.

Why Basil Scalloped Tomatoes Taste So Good

• Burst with Fresh Summer Flavors: This basil scalloped tomatoes recipe captures the essence of ripe, juicy tomatoes mixed with aromatic basil, creating a vibrant dish that sings with seasonal goodness.
• Effortless Gourmet Comfort: With just a few simple steps, home cooks can transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy side dish that feels both elegant and comforting.
• Textural Playground: The recipe delivers an incredible contrast between crispy, golden bread cubes and soft, bubbling tomatoes, providing a delightful crunch and melt-in-your-mouth experience in every single bite.
• Quick Weeknight Culinary Magic: Ready in under an hour, this versatile dish works perfectly as a side or main course, making it an ideal solution for busy cooks craving something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What’s in Ina’s Tomato Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• Bread Cubes: Crunchy base that adds texture and soaks up delicious tomato flavors, preferably day-old rustic bread for best results.

• Chopped Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe summer tomatoes provide the core flavor and moisture of the dish.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth and aromatic complexity to the recipe.
• Fresh Basil: Bright, herbaceous leaves that bring a classic Italian summer flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance overall taste.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, aged cheese that provides a salty, nutty topping and golden brown crust.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil for coating bread and adding rich flavor, choose a good fruity variety.

Ina Garten Basil Scalloped Tomatoes Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s basil scalloped tomatoes showcase summer’s finest produce with a perfect balance of crispy bread and juicy tomatoes. Garden-fresh ingredients meld into a rustic, irresistible side dish that you’ll crave at every seasonal gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups bread cubes (preferably from day-old bread)
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

Flavor Enhancers:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring an even temperature throughout.
2. Create a flavorful coating for bread cubes by tossing them with of olive oil, finely minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until each cube is thoroughly seasoned.
3. Craft a vibrant tomato mixture by combining diced ripe tomatoes, rich brown sugar, remaining olive oil, and freshly chopped basil leaves, stirring until ingredients are well integrated.
4. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking, then arrange a uniform layer of seasoned bread cubes as the foundation of the dish.
5. Carefully distribute the prepared tomato mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring an even spread across the entire surface.
6. Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tomato layer, creating a delectable cheesy topping.
7. Position the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling tomatoes that indicate perfect doneness.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the temperature settle before serving.
9. Present as a versatile side dish or a light main course, optionally accompanied by a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Use day-old bread for the best texture.
• Fresh basil adds brightness—don’t skip it.
• Perfect as a side or vegetarian main.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg