Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove it from the heat.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a baking dish (9×13 inches or similar size), spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange a layer of sliced tomatoes on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese over the tomatoes.
- Repeat the layers: tomato sauce, sliced tomatoes, and cheese until you’ve used all the ingredients. The top layer should be cheese.
4. Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and chopped fresh basil. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
5. Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese in the casserole.
6. Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
7. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your cheesy and tomato casserole! This dish combines the richness of melted cheese with the flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic herbs for a satisfying and savory meal.