Ina Garten Tomato Gratin Recipe

Ina Garten Tomato Gratin Recipe is simple, fresh, and full of comfort. It uses ripe tomatoes, crispy breadcrumbs, and rich cheese. This dish feels elegant but is very easy to make. It works well as a side dish or light main meal.

Many people love it during summer when tomatoes taste best. In this blog, you will learn How to make Ina Garten Tomato Gratin at home. I will share clear steps, tips, and serving ideas. You will also see why this recipe is loved by home cooks everywhere.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

The secret of this dish is fresh tomatoes. Juicy tomatoes bring natural sweetness and flavor. Slow baking removes extra water. This makes the gratin rich, not soggy. Breadcrumbs on top turn golden and crisp.

Cheese melts and binds everything together. Olive oil adds depth and shine. Garlic and herbs add aroma. Nothing is complicated here. Each ingredient plays a clear role. That balance makes this gratin special and satisfying.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Tomato Gratin
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 210 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spoon
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Tomato Gratin

• Ripe tomatoes, sliced
• Yellow onion, thinly sliced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves
• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper

These are the main Ingredients for Ina Garten Tomato Gratin. Fresh ingredients give the best result.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 375°F. Proper heat helps tomatoes cook evenly and breadcrumbs turn golden.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

Brush the baking dish with olive oil. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor.

3. Slice the Tomatoes

Cut tomatoes into thick slices. Thick slices hold shape and release less water while baking.

4. Slice the Onion

Slice the onion thinly. Thin slices soften nicely and blend with the tomatoes.

5. Make the Base Layer

Place half the tomatoes in the baking dish. Add half the onions on top evenly.

6. Add Garlic and Herbs

Sprinkle minced garlic and fresh herbs over the layer. This builds flavor early.

7. Season Lightly

Add salt and black pepper. Season gently because cheese adds salt later.

8. Repeat the Layers

Add remaining tomatoes and onions. Repeat garlic, herbs, and seasoning.

9. Prepare the Topping

Mix breadcrumbs with grated cheese and olive oil in a bowl until well coated.

10. Add the Topping

Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the tomatoes. Cover the surface fully.

11. Bake the Gratin

Place dish in the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until bubbling and golden.

12. Rest Before Serving

Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes. This helps flavors settle and slices hold.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use Roma tomatoes for less water.
• Sprinkle sugar lightly if tomatoes lack sweetness.
• Add mozzarella for extra melt.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Add zucchini slices for variety.
• Fresh basil on top adds color and aroma.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	210 kcal
Protein	7 g
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	6 g

Values are estimates and depend on cheese and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gratin warm from the oven. It pairs well with roasted chicken or fish. It also works with grilled steak. For a light meal, serve with crusty bread and salad. You can enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish. It tastes great at brunch too. This dish fits both casual dinners and special meals.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture. Cover loosely with foil to avoid burning. Avoid microwaving too long. The topping may lose crispness.

FAQs about Ina Garten Tomato Gratin Recipe

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Fresh tomatoes work best for this recipe. Canned tomatoes contain too much liquid and may make the gratin watery and soft.

What cheese is best for this gratin?
Gruyère and Parmesan are great choices. They melt well and add nutty flavor without overpowering the tomatoes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish earlier. Bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I stop the gratin from becoming watery?
Use ripe but firm tomatoes. Sprinkle light salt and let slices rest briefly before layering.

Is this recipe good for beginners?
Yes, this recipe is very beginner friendly. Steps are simple, and results are reliable.

Conclusion

Ina Garten Tomato Gratin Recipe shows how simple food can taste amazing. Fresh tomatoes, herbs, and cheese work together beautifully. The crispy topping adds perfect texture.

Now you know How to make Ina Garten Tomato Gratin at home with ease. This dish fits many meals and seasons. Try it once, and it may become a regular favorite. Enjoy cooking, sharing, and savoring every bite.