Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

I first encountered this Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie at my neighbor’s kitchen table on a sweltering August afternoon. She’d just pulled it from the oven, golden and bubbling, filling her entire house with the most incredible aroma. One bite transported me straight to comfort food heaven. This Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. Its blend of savory turkey bacon, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of caramelized onions and crispy turkey bacon creates a rich flavor that delights your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it hot or at room temperature; this pie is great for brunches, lunches, or dinner.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with a mix of cheddar and Gruyère cheese, each slice offers a gooey, cheesy experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate this comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pan
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and provides the perfect shape for your pie.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey bacon and caramelizing onions evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to whisk together your custard base thoroughly without spills.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
• 6 strips thick-cut Turkey Bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced (Vidalia or yellow onions work beautifully)
• 3-4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for salting tomatoes)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (trust me on this one!)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup Gruyère cheese, grated (substitute Swiss if needed)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

How to Make Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice your tomatoes into ¼-inch rounds and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle both sides generously with kosher salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This crucial step draws out excess moisture, preventing a soggy pie. Pat them completely dry before using.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon to Crispy Perfection

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crispy and golden brown. This should take about 6–8 minutes. The kitchen will smell incredible! Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on paper towels while leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

Add your sliced onions to the same skillet with the reserved turkey bacon fat. Cook over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally for about 12–15 minutes until they become beautifully golden and caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Crust

Roll out your pie crust and press it into a greased or ungreased pie pan. Crimp the edges decoratively if desired and brush the bottom lightly with olive oil to prevent sogginess.

Step 5: Make the Custard Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, mayonnaise, chopped basil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. The mayonnaise adds richness that helps create an excellent custard texture.

Step 6: Layer the Magic

Spread the caramelized onions evenly across the bottom of your prepared pie crust. Sprinkle crispy turkey bacon over the onions before layering tomato slices in overlapping circles on top.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Custard

Sprinkle cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese (or Swiss), and Parmesan cheese evenly over the tomatoes. Slowly pour your custard mixture over everything so it settles into all gaps; it should almost reach the top of your filling.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes until the center is set and top is golden brown with slightly puffed edges. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean. Allow cooling for at least 15 minutes before slicing; this lets the custard set properly.

Enjoy this delicious Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe as part of any meal!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

Serving your Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie in an enticing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will pair perfectly with this delicious pie.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and kale with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side that complements the pie’s flavors.

Complement with a Soup

• Tomato Basil Soup: Serve a warm bowl of tomato basil soup for a cozy pairing that echoes the pie’s ingredients.
• Vegetable Minestrone: A hearty minestrone filled with seasonal vegetables adds nutrition and flavor contrast.

Add Some Crunch

• Garlic Breadsticks: Offer crispy garlic breadsticks for dipping; they provide texture and are perfect for sopping up any custard.
• Roasted Veggies: Serve a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added color and nutrients.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

Perfecting your Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs to enhance flavor. Freshness makes a significant difference in taste.
• Let Tomatoes Drain: Allow salted tomatoes to sit on paper towels before use. This crucial step prevents excess moisture, ensuring a crisp pie.
• Be Mindful of Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie while baking. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness as it nears the end of the baking time.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes after baking. This allows the custard to set properly, making slicing easier.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses or use what you have on hand. Each cheese brings its unique flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

Pair your Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie with these delicious side dishes that will complement its savory flavors beautifully.

1. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden brown, these sprouts add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the pie’s softness.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing is both nutritious and tasty.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds a nice crunch and acidity to balance the richness of the pie.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside your savory pie.
5. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans seasoned with lemon zest provide freshness and color on the plate.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a sweet element that contrasts beautifully with savory dishes like this pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Soggy Tomatoes: Not salting and drying your tomatoes can lead to excess moisture in the pie. Always salt your tomato slices and let them sit on paper towels for 15 minutes before using.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the Turkey Bacon too long can make it overly crispy or burnt. Aim for a golden color and remove it from heat once it’s crispy to avoid losing flavor.
• Skipping the Custard Base: Forgetting to whisk the eggs, cream, and mayonnaise together can result in an uneven texture. Make sure the custard is smooth before pouring it over your filling.
• Not Letting It Cool: Cutting into the pie immediately after baking can cause the filling to spill out. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes so the custard sets properly.
• Ignoring Cheese Variations: Sticking only to cheddar and Gruyère limits your flavor options. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for unique tastes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute turkey bacon with chicken or beef bacon according to your preference.

How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

Salting and drying your tomatoes beforehand helps reduce excess moisture, preventing a soggy crust.

Can I make this Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving for best results.

What cheese alternatives work well in this recipe?

You can replace Gruyère with Swiss cheese or use mozzarella for a milder flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish stores well and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Turkey Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is a delightful mix of flavors that captures comfort food at its finest. It’s versatile enough for breakfast or dinner and allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give it a try – you’ll love how easy it is to create something so delicious!