Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

Avoid overmixing the meat at this stage, as this can lead to tough, dense filling that fails to cook evenly within the tomato cavity.

The overall goal is to create a harmonious balance between the ground meat, any additional fillings or seasonings, and the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes themselves.

1 egg

The ingredient that plays a crucial role in binding the filling together in our Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe is the humble egg.

An egg is a versatile and nutritious food item that consists of several key components, each with its own unique characteristics and functions.

The most prominent component of an egg is its shell, which provides protection to the delicate inner structures of the egg.

Just below the shell lies the outer membrane, a thin, translucent layer that separates the egg white from the shell.

The egg white, also known as albumen, is a clear and watery liquid that surrounds the yolk, making up about 55% of an egg’s content.

It contains protein molecules such as ovotransferrin, ovomucoid, and lysozyme, which are responsible for its properties and functions in cooking.

The yolk, situated at the center of the egg, is a rich, yellow substance that consists mainly of fat (about 30% of an egg’s content) and proteins such as vitelline and ovomucoid.

Rich in nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A and E, eggs are an excellent addition to our Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe, providing structure, texture, and flavor to the filling.

In cooking, eggs can be used in various forms such as beaten, boiled, poached, fried, or scrambled.

In the context of this recipe, using one whole egg will add richness, moisture, and binding properties to the filling, ensuring that it adheres well to the tomato’s flesh.

1 cup breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are a crucial ingredient in many recipes, including the Stuffed Tomatoes dish. When it comes to using breadcrumbs in this recipe, 1 cup of them is required. You can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your personal preference and the flavor profile you want to achieve.

Plain breadcrumbs are made from white bread that has been processed into fine crumbs. They have a neutral flavor and can be used as a base for the stuffing mixture in Stuffed Tomatoes. On the other hand, seasoned breadcrumbs typically contain additional ingredients such as herbs, spices, or cheese powder that give them a distinctive taste.

To use 1 cup of breadcrumbs in the Stuffed Tomatoes recipe, you will need to crush them into smaller pieces using a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush them with your hands. This helps to ensure even distribution of the crumbs throughout the stuffing mixture.

The breadcrumbs serve several purposes in this recipe. First, they add texture and bulk to the stuffing mixture, making it easier to fill the tomatoes. Second, they help to bind the ingredients together, preventing the filling from falling apart when cooked. Finally, the breadcrumbs absorb excess moisture from the tomatoes, helping to prevent sogginess.

When selecting breadcrumbs for this recipe, choose a high-quality brand that is fresh and has not expired. You can also make your own breadcrumbs by drying bread slices in a low oven (150-200°F) for 2-3 hours or until crispy. Simply process the dried bread into crumbs using a food processor or blender.

Grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Grated cheddar cheese is an optional ingredient that can be added to the filling mixture for an extra burst of flavor and richness.

The grated cheddar cheese is typically shredded or finely chopped into small pieces to ensure it melts evenly when cooked.

When using grated cheddar cheese, a good rule of thumb is to add about 1-2 tablespoons per large tomato, depending on the desired level of cheesiness and flavor intensity.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, but cheddar is a popular choice for its sharpness and tanginess that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes perfectly.

Keep in mind that adding grated cheddar cheese will add calories and fat to the dish, so it’s best used sparingly if you’re watching your diet.

In terms of texture, the grated cheese will melt slightly during baking, creating a creamy and indulgent filling that pairs well with the fresh tomatoes and herbs.

Feel free to omit the grated cheddar cheese altogether or substitute it with other ingredients like chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

When preparing the grated cheddar cheese for the recipe, make sure to shred or chop it just before adding it to the filling mixture to prevent clumping and uneven distribution.

The ingredients for a delicious stuffed tomatoes recipe are relatively simple, yet flavorful, making it a great dish to serve at any meal or gathering.

To begin, you will need 4 large tomatoes with their tops removed and hollowed out, leaving the bottom intact to use as a cup.

A mix of savory ingredients such as ground beef or ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried oregano, paprika, and grated cheddar cheese will add depth and richness to your stuffed tomatoes.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can also include some diced bell peppers, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of cumin to taste.

The key to this recipe is to use the freshest ingredients possible, including high-quality tomatoes that have been allowed to ripen properly on the vine.

This will not only add natural sweetness to your stuffed tomatoes but also enhance their texture and overall flavor profile.

Other important ingredients to note include a 1/4 cup of olive oil used for cooking the meat mixture, as well as a tablespoon or two of chopped fresh parsley for garnish and added color.

To complete this recipe, you will need some breadcrumbs to help hold the filling in place within each tomato shell, as well as a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and texture.

Instructions

Preliminary Steps:

Preliminary steps are essential to ensure the success of a recipe like **Stuffed Tomatoes**. Before beginning, it’s crucial to prepare your ingredients and workspace properly.

Start by selecting the freshest tomatoes. Look for ones that are firm, but yield slightly to pressure. Avoid any with visible bruises or soft spots. For this recipe, you’ll need four to six medium-sized tomatoes.

Next, preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This will ensure that the cheese is melted and the flavors are evenly distributed once the tomatoes are done baking.

Clean and prepare the workspace. Gather all the necessary ingredients and tools within easy reach to prevent accidents and save time.

Rinse the tomatoes under cold water, then gently scrub them with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help prevent sogginess during baking.

Cut the tops off each tomato using a sharp knife. Gently scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon, leaving about half an inch of the flesh around the edges.

Fine-tune your ingredients by measuring and chopping any herbs or spices called for in the recipe. For **Stuffed Tomatoes**, you’ll need fresh parsley, basil, garlic, salt, black pepper, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella.

Having completed these preliminary steps, you’re now ready to begin filling and baking your stuffed tomatoes.

Mix together the herbs, spices, ricotta cheese, and a pinch of salt. Stuff each tomato with this mixture, dividing it evenly among the four or six prepared tomatoes.

Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent overcooking during the initial stages.

The first step to making a delicious Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe is to prepare the ingredients needed for the dish.

This typically includes selecting fresh tomatoes, often red or green, depending on personal preference and desired flavor profile.

Next, choose the type of filling, which can be based on ground meat, cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, among other options.

For this recipe, a combination of ground beef and rice is often used, but feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create unique flavor combinations.

Once the ingredients are selected, carefully clean and wash the tomatoes to remove any dirt or debris from their surface.

Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to ensure they’re fresh and ready for preparation.

Select a knife that can cut through the tomato’s skin without causing it to break apart.

Gently make an incision along one side of each tomato, stopping just before reaching the other end.

Continue to gently pry open the two halves of the tomato, being careful not to apply too much pressure and cause them to fall apart.

Next, carefully remove any seeds or excess pulp from the inside of the tomato, using a spoon or small melon baller to scoop out the unwanted material.

This process will help create space for the filling while also preventing an overwhelming amount of liquid from forming during cooking.

Now that the tomatoes are prepared, it’s time to prepare the filling. For this recipe, you can use ground beef mixed with rice and spices.

The mixture should be cooked until the meat is browned and the rice is tender, often requiring about 10 minutes of cooking in a skillet over medium heat.

Using a slotted spoon, remove any excess fat or moisture from the filling to ensure it’s not too greasy or wet when stuffed into the tomatoes.

Now that both the tomatoes and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Stuff each tomato with a generous amount of the filling mixture, being careful not to pack it in too tightly as this can cause the tomatoes to burst open during cooking.

Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each tomato to allow for even cooking and airflow.

Bake the tomatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork and lightly browned on top.

During this time, you may want to cover them with foil to prevent excessive browning, but keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.

Remove the tomatoes from the oven once they’re cooked through and garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

This delicious Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe is now ready to be served hot, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as rice, pasta salad, or roasted vegetables, making it a satisfying meal option for any occasion.

Precut the tops off tomatoes and scoop out insides

To prepare this delicious Stuffed Tomatoes recipe, begin by selecting fresh, plump tomatoes with firm skin.

Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the stuffed tomatoes are cooked evenly and thoroughly.

Now, it’s time to precut the tops off the tomatoes. Hold each tomato firmly on a cutting board and carefully slice off the top 1/4 inch of the tomato using a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as you want to maintain the structural integrity of the tomato.

Once you’ve precut the tops off all the tomatoes, use a spoon or a melon baller to scoop out the insides of each tomato. Be gentle when doing this, as you don’t want to break the walls of the tomato.

Continue scooping out the insides until about 1/2 inch of flesh remains on the bottom and sides of each tomato. This will provide a comfortable “cradle” for your filling ingredients.

Now that you’ve prepared your tomatoes, it’s time to move on to the next step in this recipe: preparing the filling ingredients.

In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion until soft

To create this delectable Stuffed Tomatoes recipe, follow these instructions carefully to achieve the perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Select three large, ripe tomatoes with firm skin, ideally cherry or beefsteak variety. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Gently pat dry the tomatoes using a clean kitchen towel, ensuring they’re free of excess moisture. This will help prevent sogginess during cooking.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

• In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it reaches its smoking point. You can test this by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the oil is ready.

• Next, add one finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it’s translucent and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent burning or browning.

Step 3: Cooking the Filling

1. In a separate pan, cook 2-3 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic – this will give it an unpleasant taste.

2. Mix cooked rice with the sautéed onion, garlic, and any other desired fillings (such as ground meat or chopped vegetables) in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 4: Assembly and Baking

1. Carefully hollow out the center of each tomato using a spoon, being careful not to puncture the skin.

2. Scoop the prepared filling into the tomato cavities, leaving about half an inch of space between the filling and the tomato’s top. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese or breadcrumbs on top for extra flavor.

3. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Bake the tomatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re tender and lightly golden brown. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Add garlic and cook for an additional minute

To follow the instructions correctly, it’s essential to break down the process into manageable steps.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

To ensure the stuffed tomatoes turn out deliciously, you need to start by preparing the ingredients:

• Select four large, ripe tomatoes with a sturdy stem end. They should be firm enough to hold their shape when cut.

• Prepare one small onion by peeling and finely chopping it. This will help prevent the onion’s strong flavor from overpowering the other ingredients.

• Clean and chop a bunch of fresh parsley leaves for garnish.

Now, let’s move on to adding the key component that gives the dish its distinctive flavor:

Add Garlic

• Take three cloves of garlic and peel them. You can use a garlic press or mince them with a knife.

• Add the minced garlic to the chopped onion. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Additional Tips:

To ensure your stuffed tomatoes turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Mix the filling ingredients gently to avoid compacting them. You want a light, airy texture for the best results.

• When stuffing each tomato, fill it loosely but not too loosely, as you don’t want the filling to spill out during cooking.

• Cook the stuffed tomatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

By following these steps and tips, you should be able to create deliciously stuffed tomatoes that will impress your family and friends!

To prepare this scrumptious Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe, start by selecting firm, plump tomatoes with a vibrant color.

Select about 4-6 large tomatoes depending on their size and your serving needs, ensuring they’re free from blemishes or soft spots.

Begin by cutting off the top of each tomato to create a small cap that can be set aside for garnish later.

Gently scoop out the seeds and excess pulp from the interior of each tomato using a spoon, taking care not to puncture the delicate walls.

Rinse the tomatoes under cold running water to remove any remaining seeds or pulp, then gently pat them dry with paper towels.

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of cooked rice (preferably brown or white), 1 finely chopped onion, and 1 minced clove of garlic.

Add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste, stirring the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Mix in 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese (or any other melty cheese you prefer) along with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or dill.

Stuff each tomato cavity generously with the rice and cheese mixture, mounding it slightly at the top to resemble a small hat.

Carefully place the tomatoes in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between them for even cooking.

Dot the tops of the stuffed tomatoes with a little extra butter or olive oil and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Bake at preheated oven temperatures (175-200°C/350-400°F) for approximately 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil to allow the cheese to melt and the tomatoes to brown slightly.

Return the baking dish to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, keeping a close eye on the tomatoes to prevent overcooking.

Remove from the oven when golden brown and set aside to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

Expert Advice:

To make stuffed tomatoes truly exceptional, consider experimenting with various fillings beyond the traditional combination of breadcrumbs and cheese. One approach is to blend Mediterranean flavors by incorporating ingredients such as Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta cheese.

Alternatively, you can create a Southwestern-inspired dish by combining cooked rice with black beans, diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. This variation adds a delightful burst of freshness to the classic stuffed tomato recipe.

If you prefer a more robust flavor profile, try adding some heat with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to your filling mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for a creamy and rich texture.

For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap out the meat broth used in traditional recipes with vegetable broth or a mushroom-based liquid for added depth of flavor.

Some expert advice when preparing stuffed tomatoes is to ensure that your tomatoes are at room temperature before filling them. This helps prevent the filling from becoming soggy and promotes even cooking.

To enhance presentation, consider topping your stuffed tomatoes with fresh herbs or edible flowers. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a delicate nasturtium blossom adds a pop of color and fragrance to this dish.

The versatility of stuffed tomatoes offers numerous possibilities for creative variations and tips to enhance the dish.

One notable tip is to choose tomatoes that are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape after being filled and baked.

This can be achieved by selecting medium to large-sized tomatoes with a deep red or yellow color, depending on personal preference.

Another suggestion is to use a combination of herbs for added flavor complexity. For example, basil, oregano, and parsley can be used together in a ratio that suits individual taste.

Beyond the traditional filling ingredients like breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and minced meat, consider experimenting with other options such as cooked rice, chopped vegetables, or even legumes like black beans.

To make the dish more substantial, adding cooked pasta, sliced eggplant, or diced bell peppers can contribute to a satisfying meal.

Some creative filling variations include using hummus and sun-dried tomatoes for added creaminess, or employing pesto and cherry tomatoes for an Italian twist.

A further tip is to adjust the baking time based on personal preference for doneness. This can range from 15-25 minutes at a temperature of 375°F (190°C), depending on the size and filling density of the tomatoes.

Finally, consider presenting the stuffed tomatoes in various ways, such as arranging them on a platter or serving them individually with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce.

Avoid overstuffing to prevent tomatoes from bursting during baking.

When it comes to stuffing tomatoes and preventing them from bursting during baking, there are several tips and variations that can make a big difference.

First and foremost, choose the right size of tomatoes for your recipe. For stuffed tomatoes, look for medium-sized tomatoes with a firm skin and no signs of soft spots or bruises. These will hold up better to the filling and heat of the oven.

Next, carefully prepare the inside of the tomato by scooping out the seeds and excess flesh using a spoon or melon baller. Be gentle so as not to damage the delicate walls of the tomato.

To prevent overstuffing, which can cause the tomatoes to burst, use a filling that’s lightly packed into each cavity. A good rule of thumb is to fill them about 2/3 to 3/4 of the way full, leaving some room for expansion during baking.

Another variation on stuffed tomatoes involves using different types of cheese and breadcrumbs in the filling. For example, you can mix grated Parmesan or cheddar with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated mozzarella on top before baking.

Some recipes also call for adding other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked ground meat, chopped vegetables, or even cooked grains. These add texture and flavor, but be mindful not to overdo it – too much can make the tomatoes burst!

To further prevent bursting, bake your stuffed tomatoes at a lower temperature than you might expect. Instead of baking them at 375°F (190°C), try reducing the heat to 325°F (160°C) or even 300°F (150°C). This will help cook the filling slowly and evenly, without causing the tomatoes to burst under the heat.

Finally, keep an eye on your stuffed tomatoes while they’re baking. If you notice them starting to leak or show signs of bursting, remove them from the oven immediately and let them cool. This can happen if they’re overfilled or not cooked long enough – but it’s easily prevented with a little care and attention!

For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped Kalamata olives or artichoke hearts to the filling.

For a Mediterranean twist, adding some chopped Kalamata olives or artichoke hearts to the filling can add a burst of salty flavor and texture to the dish.

Alternatively, you could also consider adding some crumbled feta cheese to the filling for an extra layer of saltiness and creaminess.

Another option is to use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones, which will give the filling a more concentrated tomato flavor and a chewier texture.

If you want to add some heat to your stuffed tomatoes, you could add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra kick of spice.

For a vegetarian option, you could substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant, which will add a meaty texture and flavor to the dish without using animal products.

You could also use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, instead of mozzarella for a creamier filling.

Another idea is to add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to the filling for a bright and fresh flavor.

For a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs and be careful with the type of cheese you use, as some cheeses may contain gluten.

Bake at 375°F for about 2530 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

To achieve perfectly baked stuffed tomatoes with a golden-brown crust and melted gooey cheese, it’s essential to bake them at the right temperature for an optimal amount of time. The recommended temperature for baking the stuffed tomatoes is 375°F (190°C). This moderate heat helps to cook the filling evenly while preventing the cheese from browning too quickly.

The baking time will depend on the size and type of tomatoes you’re using, as well as your personal preference for the level of doneness. As a general guideline, bake the stuffed tomatoes for 25-30 minutes for smaller tomatoes and 35-40 minutes for larger ones. However, it’s crucial to check them frequently during the baking time to ensure they don’t overcook.

One of the key signs that the stuffed tomatoes are done is when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. You can also check if the tomatoes are tender by inserting a knife or fork into one; if it slides in easily, they’re ready.

To add some excitement to your stuffed tomatoes, you could try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or feta. Experimenting with various combinations of cheeses can result in unique flavor profiles and textures.

For a more indulgent twist, consider adding some diced ham, bacon, or pancetta to the filling for added smokiness and saltiness. You could also add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme to give the dish a bright and refreshing note.

If you want to make your stuffed tomatoes even more special, try using different types of bread or breadcrumbs in the filling. For example, you could use cubed sourdough or baguette for added depth of flavor, or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.