These low carb 3-ingredient parmesan tomato bakes are one of those simple little recipes that somehow disappear faster than anything else on the table. They remind me of old-school summer gatherings and block parties, when ripe tomatoes were everywhere and someone always showed up with a warm baking dish that smelled amazing. With just tomatoes, Parmesan, and a little seasoning, you get a side dish or appetizer that feels special without asking much from you.
Serve these warm alongside grilled chicken, burgers without the bun, steak, or Italian-style roasted meats. They also work really well as a light appetizer with a crisp green salad, or next to eggs for a savory brunch plate. If you're putting together a summer spread, they fit right in with anything fresh, herby, and simple.
Low Carb 3-Ingredient Parmesan Tomato Bakes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a ceramic baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment for easier cleanup.
2. Arrange the thick tomato slices in a single layer in the dish, leaving a little space between them so the edges can roast instead of steam.
3. Sprinkle the tomato slices evenly with the Italian seasoning, then top each slice generously with grated Parmesan.
4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and turning golden at the edges.
5. For extra browning, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely so the cheese crisps without burning. Serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Use the right tomatoes: Choose large, firm, ripe tomatoes that can hold their shape in the oven. If your tomatoes are extra juicy, blot the cut sides lightly with paper towels before topping them so the cheese browns better.
Cheese texture matters: Finely grated Parmesan melts into a more even topping, while shredded Parmesan gives a slightly more lacy, crisp finish. Either works, so use what you have.
Add a little freshness: Even though the base recipe keeps it to three ingredients, a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley right before serving brightens everything up nicely if you want a pop of color.
Make them for a crowd: This recipe doubles easily for cookouts, potlucks, and holiday appetizers. Just use a larger baking dish or two sheet pans so the tomatoes stay in a single layer and roast evenly.