Tomato Breakfast Bake: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Tomato Breakfast Bake: Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm, savory tomatoes mingling with herbs and melted cheese. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience! This delightful dish transforms humble ingredients into a comforting and satisfying start to your day.

While the exact origins of a baked tomato breakfast are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of baking tomatoes with cheese and herbs has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where tomatoes are celebrated for their vibrant flavor and versatility. Think of it as a rustic cousin to shakshuka, offering a similar warmth and heartiness but with a distinct baked twist.

So, why do people adore this Tomato Breakfast Bake? It’s simple: the combination of juicy, slightly tangy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible. The baking process intensifies the tomato’s sweetness, creating a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekday mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful and fuss-free bake!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving
• 4 ounces Italian sausage, removed from casing (optional)
• 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Preparing the Tomato Sauce:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this dish – the tomato sauce! This is where we build the flavor, so take your time and enjoy the process. I promise, it’s worth it!

1. Sauté the Aromatics: First, grab a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is perfect if you have one!). Place it over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion. Cook the onion until it’s softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning. We want it to be sweet and fragrant, not browned.
2. Add the Garlic: Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be amazing at this point!
3. Build the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine everything. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as you go.
4. Simmer and Develop Flavor: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if you have the time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. While it simmers, you can prepare the other ingredients.
5. Optional Additions (Sausage and Mushrooms): If you’re using Italian sausage, now’s the time to add it. Crumble the sausage into the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. If you’re using mushrooms, add them to the skillet along with the sausage and cook until they’re softened and have released their moisture.

Preparing the Egg Mixture:

While the sauce is simmering away, let’s get the egg mixture ready. This will give the bake its creamy, rich texture.

1. Whisk the Eggs and Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and slightly frothy.
2. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a salty, nutty flavor to the egg mixture.
3. Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the egg mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remember that the Parmesan cheese is already salty, so be careful not to over-salt.

Assembling and Baking:

Now for the fun part – putting everything together and baking it to golden perfection!

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pour in the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the tomato sauce in the skillet. Make sure the egg mixture is evenly distributed.
3. Add Mozzarella Cheese (Optional): If you’re using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the egg mixture.
4. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid.
5. Let it Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the bake to set up a bit more.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil. Serve hot, directly from the skillet, with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

This Tomato Breakfast Bake is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Vegetables: Get creative with your veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and kale all work well in this bake. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta, goat cheese, and Gruyere are all delicious options.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage for a vegetarian version. You can add more vegetables or use plant-based sausage crumbles.
• Individual Bakes: For individual servings, divide the tomato sauce and egg mixture among ramekins and bake until set.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the sauce into the skillet, add the egg mixture, and bake as directed.
• Bread Crumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle bread crumbs over the egg mixture before baking.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary can also be used to add flavor to the bake.

Serving Suggestions:

This Tomato Breakfast Bake is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Toast: Toast slices of bread and serve them alongside the bake.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment to the rich bake.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like a little extra heat, serve with your favorite hot sauce.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Tomato Breakfast Bake as much as I do! It’s a perfect dish for a weekend brunch, a cozy weeknight dinner, or any time you’re craving something warm, comforting, and flavorful. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Tomato Breakfast Bake is truly a game-changer for your mornings (or even a lazy brunch!). I know, I know, there are a million breakfast recipes out there, but trust me on this one. The combination of the sweet, roasted tomatoes, the creamy eggs, and that hint of garlic and herbs is just divine. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re indulging, but it’s actually packed with goodness. It’s a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to throw together, it’s bursting with flavor, and it’s a fantastic way to use up those ripe tomatoes sitting on your counter.

Why This Tomato Breakfast Bake is a Winner

Seriously, what’s not to love? It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning minimal cleanup. It’s adaptable to your dietary needs – easily made vegetarian, gluten-free, or even dairy-free with a few simple swaps. And most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious! The roasting process intensifies the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a rich and savory base for the eggs. The herbs add a touch of freshness, and the garlic provides that subtle kick that wakes up your taste buds. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Now, let’s talk about how to make this Tomato Breakfast Bake even more amazing. I love serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the runny yolks and soaking up all that delicious tomato sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the bake perfectly. For a heartier meal, you could add some crumbled sausage or bacon to the tomato mixture before baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies. Cheese lovers, rejoice! A sprinkle of feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan on top before baking adds a delightful salty and tangy element. And for a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking, right? It’s all about creating something that you love and that reflects your personal taste. You can also adjust the baking time depending on how you like your eggs. For runnier yolks, bake for a shorter time. For firmer yolks, bake for a bit longer. Just keep an eye on it and adjust accordingly.

Time to Get Cooking!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a staple in your breakfast rotation. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch with friends, a quick and easy weekday breakfast, or even a light and satisfying dinner. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Tomato Breakfast Bake. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you loved, and what you would change. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love hearing from my readers. Happy baking, and bon appétit!