Speedy feta-free tomato bake

Featured in: Savory Quick Bites

This vibrant tomato bake combines ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic herbs for a quick, easy dish. Layered and baked until bubbly and golden, it offers a comforting Mediterranean-inspired flavor without feta. Ideal for a fast dinner or hearty side, it complements crusty bread or pasta and suits vegetarian, nut-free diets.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:04:00 GMT
Golden, bubbly Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake topped with fresh basil, ready to serve with crusty bread. Save
Golden, bubbly Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake topped with fresh basil, ready to serve with crusty bread. | collationspot.com

A vibrant, cheesy tomato bake that comes together quickly without feta&mdashperfect for weeknight dinners or as a hearty side.

This recipe became a staple in my house because it's super fast and everyone loves the melty mozzarella layer.

Ingredients

  • Vegetables: 700 g (1.5 lbs) ripe tomatoes, sliced, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Cheese: 125 g (4.5 oz) fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced, 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Garnish (optional): Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
Step 2:
Lightly oil a medium baking dish Arrange half the tomato slices in a single layer
Step 3:
Sprinkle half the red onion and half the minced garlic over the tomatoes Season lightly with salt pepper oregano and basil
Step 4:
Layer half the mozzarella over the vegetables
Step 5:
Repeat with the remaining tomatoes onion garlic seasonings and mozzarella
Step 6:
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top
Step 7:
Bake for 20 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the tomatoes are tender
Step 8:
Let cool slightly Top with fresh basil before serving
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| collationspot.com

This recipe always brings smiles at family dinners especially when served with crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

Add sliced olives or roasted red peppers between layers for extra flavor.

Savory Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake, a flavorful Mediterranean delight, with melted mozzarella and parmesan. Save
Savory Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake, a flavorful Mediterranean delight, with melted mozzarella and parmesan. | collationspot.com

A simple and tasty addition to any weeknight dinner rotation.

Recipe Help

Can I use different cheeses in this bake?

Yes, substituting mozzarella with ricotta or goat cheese works well for varied textures and flavors.

What herbs enhance the tomato bake’s flavor?

Dried oregano and basil add classic Mediterranean notes, while fresh basil garnish provides brightness.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

Total time is about 35 minutes, with 10 minutes preparation and 25 minutes baking.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians with dietary restrictions?

It suits vegetarian and nut-free diets but contains dairy; check cheese labels for rennet if strict vegetarian.

Can I add extra vegetables to the bake?

Yes, adding sliced olives or roasted red peppers between layers enhances flavor and texture.

What is a good accompaniment for this bake?

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Speedy feta-free tomato bake

A cheesy tomato bake with mozzarella and herbs, ready quickly for weeknight meals or sides.

Prep Time
10 min
Time to Cook
25 min
Overall Time
35 min
Created by Chloe Martin


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mediterranean-Inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Special Diets Vegetarian, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Vegetables

01 1.5 lbs ripe tomatoes, sliced
02 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese

01 4.5 oz fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced
02 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs & Seasoning

01 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
02 1 tsp dried oregano
03 1/2 tsp dried basil
04 Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

01 Fresh basil leaves

How-To

Step 01

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Step 02

Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly oil a medium baking dish.

Step 03

Layer Tomatoes and Vegetables: Arrange half of the tomato slices in a single layer, then sprinkle half the red onion and minced garlic over the tomatoes. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil.

Step 04

Add Cheese Layers: Layer half of the mozzarella evenly over the vegetables.

Step 05

Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining tomatoes, red onion, garlic, seasonings, and mozzarella.

Step 06

Add Olive Oil and Parmesan: Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 07

Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the tomatoes are tender.

Step 08

Garnish and Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Gear Needed

  • Medium baking dish
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Grater

Allergy Details

Review every item for allergens and connect with your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy (milk).
  • Suitable for nut-free and gluten-free diets.

Nutrition Breakdown (each serving)

Info for reference only—don’t take this as expert medical guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 210
  • Lipids: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Proteins: 11 g