--- title: Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes url: https://optimalrecipes.com/cheesy-baked-stuffed-tomatoes/ author: Patricia Jannet published: 2025-08-04 updated: 2025-08-04 image: https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Oven-Roasted-Tomatoes-Stuffed-with-Herbed-Rice-and-Cheese.webp categories: ["Dinner Ideas"] site: Optimal Recipes --- # Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes > Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are my go-to comfort food when I’m craving something hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor—without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy oven-roasted tomato recipe was born on a lazy Sunday when all I had were a few overripe tomatoes, leftover herbed rice, and a block... ![Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Oven-Roasted-Tomatoes-Stuffed-with-Herbed-Rice-and-Cheese.webp) ## Article **Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes** are my go-to comfort food when I’m craving something hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor—without spending hours in the kitchen. This **easy oven-roasted tomato recipe** was born on a lazy Sunday when all I had were a few overripe tomatoes, leftover herbed rice, and a block of mozzarella begging to be used. The result? **Melty cheese-stuffed tomatoes with savory garlic rice**, bubbling and golden, with a crispy top and juicy center. It’s like a warm hug in every bite—cheesy, aromatic, and satisfying. I love creating **simple vegetarian [dinner ideas](https://optimalrecipes.com/category/dinner-ideas/)** that feel gourmet but use pantry staples. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, looking for **stuffed tomato recipes with rice**, or need a **quick vegetarian weeknight meal**, this dish delivers every time. Ready to bring that comfort to your table? **Here’s how to make the best Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes.** ## What Makes This So Irresistible - ✅ Ready in just 45 minutes—minimal prep, max flavor. - ✅ Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. - ✅ Great for meal prep—make ahead and reheat beautifully. - ✅ Customizable—swap rice with quinoa, or add ground meat. - ✅ Low in calories but high in satisfaction. - ✅ Gorgeous presentation—great for dinner parties or potlucks. - ✅ Only one pan to clean up! Looking for the **best way to make Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes at home**? This is it. clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Oven-Roasted-Tomatoes-Stuffed-with-Herbed-Rice-and-Cheese.webp) ## Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes No reviews - Author: Patricia Jannet - Total Time: 45 minutes - Yield: 6 servings 1x - Diet: Vegetarian [Print Recipe](#) [Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=%23) ### Description Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are oven-roasted tomatoes filled with herbed rice and topped with golden melted cheese—perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner or a healthy side dish. ### Ingredients Scale 1x2x3x - 6 large ripe tomatoes - 1 cup cooked rice - 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional) ### Instructions - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. - Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp and seeds. Set the hollowed tomatoes aside and finely chop the pulp. - In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. - Add the chopped tomato pulp and cook for 5 minutes to reduce the liquid. - Stir in the cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. - Fold in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese. - Stuff each hollowed tomato with the rice mixture, pressing down slightly to compact. - Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and place them in the prepared baking dish. - Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the tomatoes are tender. - Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving. ### Notes - Use firm tomatoes like beefsteak or vine-ripened to hold their shape while baking. - You can substitute rice with quinoa or couscous for variation. - Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch. - Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for convenience. - Prep Time: 15 minutes - Cook Time: 30 minutes - Category: Main Course - Method: Baking - Cuisine: Mediterranean ### Nutrition - Serving Size: 1 stuffed tomato - Calories: 210 - Sugar: 5g - Sodium: 320mg - Fat: 11g - Saturated Fat: 5g - Unsaturated Fat: 5g - Trans Fat: 0g - Carbohydrates: 22g - Fiber: 3g - Protein: 6g - Cholesterol: 20mg ### Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made! window.trCommon={"minRating":6,"ajaxurl":"https:\/\/optimalrecipes.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","ratingNonce":"","postId":0}; ## Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes Here’s everything you’ll need: - 6 large ripe tomatoes - 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice works great) - 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional) *For a gluten-free option*, make sure the rice is certified gluten-free and skip store-bought cheese with additives. Looking for more **essential ingredients for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes**? You can add cooked quinoa, feta cheese, chopped spinach, or pine nuts for a twist. ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Cheesy-Baked-Stuffed-Tomatoes-1.webp) Crispy cheese, tender tomato—your new favorite comfort food. ## How to Make Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes – Step by Step ### Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). - Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. - Slice the tops off your tomatoes. - Scoop out the pulp and seeds, being careful not to pierce the walls. - Place the hollowed tomatoes in the baking dish. - Finely chop the tomato pulp and set it aside. ### Step 2: Sauté the Filling - In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. - Add the onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). - Stir in the chopped tomato pulp. Cook for about 5 minutes to reduce the moisture. - Add cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well. - Remove from heat. - Fold in half the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese. ### Step 3: Stuff and Bake - Carefully fill each tomato with the rice mixture. Press down slightly to compact. - Sprinkle the tops with the remaining mozzarella. - Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil before serving. *Pro Tip:* Want crispier cheese? Broil for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end. ## Pro Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes - Want to make it ahead of time? Prep and refrigerate the stuffed tomatoes, then bake when ready. - Looking for protein? Add chopped cooked chicken, crumbled tofu, or lentils to the rice. - Cheese variations: Try gouda, sharp cheddar, or crumbled feta for a flavor twist. - Use firm tomatoes like beefsteak or vine-ripened for the best structure during baking. - Add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. *What is the secret to the best Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes?* It’s the balance between juicy tomato, herbed filling, and golden melted cheese. ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Oven-Roasted-Tomatoes-Stuffed.webp) Oven-roasted tomatoes overflowing with cheesy rice goodness. ## Nutritional Information for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes NutrientAmount per Serving**Calories**210 kcal**Carbohydrates**22g**Protein**6g**Fat**11g**Fiber**3g**Sodium**320mg *Low-calorie and nutrient-rich, this is a guilt-free indulgence!* ## Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes - Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette. - Pair with a green salad, such as arugula or spinach with balsamic glaze. - Add a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. - Great with grilled chicken, tofu skewers, or roasted veggies. **Related Pairings:** - Try with our Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread Recipe - Or our Easy Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli Recipe *The best way to serve Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes? With warm bread and good company!* ## Storage & Leftovers - Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. - Freezer: Not recommended as tomatoes become mushy. - Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes. *How long do Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes last in the fridge?* Up to 3 days with full flavor retention. ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Cheesy-Baked-Stuffed-Tomatoes.webp) Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes never looked this good— herby, and deliciously golden. ## Got Questions? We’ve Got You Covered **Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?** A: Yes! Just swap the cheese for vegan alternatives like dairy-free mozzarella or nutritional yeast. **Q: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?** A: Absolutely! Quinoa works beautifully and adds protein. **Q: What type of tomatoes are best?** A: Choose firm, medium-large tomatoes like beefsteak or Roma. **Q: Can I make this for a crowd?** A: Yes—just double the recipe and use a large baking dish. **Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?** A: Definitely! The cheesy rice filling is a hit with little ones. ## More Tasty Ideas to Explore - Zucchini Grilled Cheese – Easy Recipe for Lunch - Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Stuffed Peppers Craving More? Try These Flavorful Picks! ## Your Turn in the Kitchen! Now that you know how to make **the best Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes at home**, it’s time to grab those ripe tomatoes and bring a little joy to your table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Sunday brunch, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. *We’d love to hear from you!* 📸 Tried the recipe? Share a photo! 💬 Leave a comment and let us know your twist! 🔗 **[Don’t forget to share this recipe](https://pin.it/leU4893bF)**with fellow foodies! --- **Source**: [Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes](https://optimalrecipes.com/cheesy-baked-stuffed-tomatoes/) **Site**: Optimal Recipes - https://optimalrecipes.com/ **Author**: Patricia Jannet *If you cite this recipe, please link to: https://optimalrecipes.com/cheesy-baked-stuffed-tomatoes/*