Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake

Featured in: Warm Bakes & Casseroles

This tomato cheese bake blends ripe sliced tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and parmesan, layered with red onion, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. Drizzled with olive oil and baked until bubbly and golden, it offers a fresh, vibrant dish ready in under 35 minutes. Perfect for quick dinners or as a flavorful side, its simple preparation highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes and richness of cheeses, finished with fresh basil for aromatic depth.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:36:00 GMT
Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake with bubbling mozzarella, golden Parmesan, and fresh basil garnish. Save
Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake with bubbling mozzarella, golden Parmesan, and fresh basil garnish. | forkta.com

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

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen when I want a simple Mediterranean-inspired dish that pleases the whole family.

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
Baked Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake featuring tender tomatoes and melted cheese, perfect for a side dish. Save
Baked Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake featuring tender tomatoes and melted cheese, perfect for a side dish. | forkta.com

My family loves gathering around this dish It's a comforting favorite that sparks great conversations over dinner

Notes

For extra flavor add a handful of sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the layers Swap mozzarella for ricotta or goat cheese if desired (still feta-free) Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete meal

Required Tools

Medium baking dish Chefs knife Cutting board Grater

Nutritional Information

Calories 210 Total Fat 13 g Carbohydrates 11 g Protein 11 g per serving

A Mediterranean-inspired Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake, bursting with flavors and easy to make tonight. Save
A Mediterranean-inspired Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake, bursting with flavors and easy to make tonight. | forkta.com

This speedy feta-free tomato bake delivers delicious results with minimal effort making it perfect for busy evenings.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Yes, ricotta or goat cheese can be used as alternatives, maintaining a creamy texture without feta.

How long should the bake cool before serving?

Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly and enhance flavors before serving.

What herbs work best in this bake?

Dried oregano and basil are traditional, with fresh basil leaves added at the end for brightness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate; bake shortly before serving for best texture.

Is it possible to add vegetables to this bake?

Adding sliced olives or roasted red peppers between layers enhances flavor and adds variety.

Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake

A quick, cheesy tomato bake with fresh mozzarella and herbs, ideal for easy dinners or sides.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
35 min
Created by Mia Parker


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mediterranean-Inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-Free, Gluten-Free

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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

01 Fresh basil leaves (optional)

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly oil a medium baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 03

Layer Vegetables: Arrange half of the sliced tomatoes in a single layer in the dish. Top evenly with half of the sliced red onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.

Step 04

Add Cheese Layer: Distribute half of the mozzarella over the seasoned vegetables.

Step 05

Repeat Layers: Repeat layering with the remaining tomatoes, onions, garlic, seasoning, and mozzarella.

Step 06

Finish and Bake: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling and the tomatoes are tender.

Step 07

Garnish and Serve: Allow the bake to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Details

Check every item for allergens, and check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains milk (dairy)

Nutrition Per Serving

For informational purposes; please consult your healthcare professional.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Protein: 11 g