Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe is a delightful side dish that showcases the deliciousness of fresh tomatoes combined with melty cheese. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a quick family dinner, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor to your plate. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy these savory treats that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 5 minutes on the grill, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, cheesy delight that complements the sweet tomatoes perfectly.
- Versatile Side Dish: Great for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, these grilled tomatoes fit into any meal plan.
- Healthy Option: Low in calories and high in taste, this dish offers a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easy Cleanup: Minimal prep and cooking tools mean less time cleaning up afterward!
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Basting brush
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor in your tomatoes.
- Basting brush: Helps evenly apply oil to the grill grates, preventing sticking.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when halving the tomatoes.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safely preparing your ingredients.

Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for the Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe:
For the Grilled Tomatoes
- 4 Roma tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
- oil (for brushing the grill)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
How to Make Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese.
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking of your tomatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Cut each Roma tomato in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and membrane using a spoon.
- Season the inside of each tomato shell with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add Cheeses
- Fill each tomato shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Top each filled tomato with about 1 teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Grill the Tomatoes
- Brush the grill grates with oil using a basting brush.
- Place the prepared tomatoes on the grill and close the lid.
- Grill for about 4–5 minutes until the cheese melts, being careful not to overcook them.
Step 5: Broil for Finish
- Just before serving, place the grilled tomatoes under an oven broiler to brown the cheese lightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from broiler, sprinkle with dried oregano and parsley, then allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese as a delightful side!
How to Serve Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Grilled tomatoes with cheese are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal. Their rich flavors and appealing presentation make them versatile for various occasions.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or beef for a complete barbecue experience.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy plate.
In a Salad
- Chop grilled tomatoes into smaller pieces and toss them in a fresh salad with greens and your favorite dressing.
- Use as a topping on a Mediterranean-style salad with olives and feta cheese.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top to enhance the flavor profile.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as pesto or hummus for added flavor.
- Combine with tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
How to Perfect Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Achieving perfectly grilled tomatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Choose ripe tomatoes: Select firm, ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Even seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Monitor grill temperature: Keep the grill at medium heat to avoid burning the cheese while allowing the tomatoes to cook evenly.
- Use high-quality cheese: Opt for fresh Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and meltability.
- Don’t overcook: Grill just until the cheese melts, typically 4-5 minutes, to prevent the tomatoes from becoming too soft.
- Garnish wisely: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with oregano and parsley for an aromatic touch.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Pairing side dishes with grilled tomatoes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter complements the cheesy flavors perfectly.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds protein and crunch.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings out earthy flavors that balance well.
- Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables provides a light yet filling addition.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side dish.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil offer a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling tomatoes with cheese can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the tomatoes: Leaving them on the grill too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on the time, and remove them as soon as the cheese melts.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the inside of the tomatoes can lead to bland flavors. Use garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously for a tastier result.
- Using cold ingredients: Grating cold cheese makes it harder to melt evenly. Let your cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
- Skipping the broiler step: Not broiling at the end means losing that delicious golden-brown top. Always finish under the broiler for that perfect crust.
- Ignoring grill prep: Not brushing oil on the grill grates can cause sticking. Be sure to brush oil on the grates before grilling to ensure easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled tomatoes in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
- Freeze grilled tomatoes individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; check frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm them gently, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:
How do I make Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the cheese mixture before filling the tomatoes. This will give your dish an extra kick!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with various cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles in your Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe.
What can I serve with grilled tomatoes?
These grilled tomatoes pair well with salads, grilled meats, or as a topping on toasted bread for a delightful appetizer.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the tomatoes and fill them with cheese ahead of time. Just grill them when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it an appealing side dish or appetizer. Feel free to customize it by adding herbs or spices based on your preference. Try this easy recipe today!

Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 halves per serving) 1x
Description
Grilled Tomatoes with Cheese is a scrumptious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of fresh Roma tomatoes with the rich creaminess of melted Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or as a delightful appetizer to impress your guests. In just 20 minutes, you can create an irresistible dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The grilling process enhances the flavors while providing a nice char, making these cheesy tomatoes a must-try addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 4 Roma tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Oil (for brushing the grill)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cut each Roma tomato in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Season the insides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each tomato half with about 2 tablespoons of Monterey Jack cheese and top with a teaspoon of Parmesan cheese.
- Brush the grill grates with oil and place the prepared tomatoes on the grill.
- Close the lid and grill for about 4–5 minutes until the cheese is melted but tomatoes remain firm.
- For a golden finish, place under the broiler for a minute before serving.
- Garnish with dried oregano and parsley, then enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg