Craving the crispy, tangy goodness of Fried Green Tomatoes but want a lighter option? This baked version gives you all the crunch without deep-frying! Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and baked until golden brown, these tomatoes make the perfect appetizer or side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative – No deep-frying, just crispy baked perfection.
- Crispy & Flavorful – Crunchy coating with a slight tang from green tomatoes.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and no mess from frying!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Green tomatoes (3 medium, sliced ¼-inch thick)
- All-purpose flour (½ cup)
- Eggs (2, beaten)
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)
- Cornmeal (½ cup)
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated)
- Garlic powder (½ tsp)
- Paprika (½ tsp)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
How to Make Baked “Fried” Green Tomatoes
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Prepare the Breading Stations – Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine panko, cornmeal, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bread the Tomato Slices – Dredge each tomato slice in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange & Bake – Place tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake – Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy! – Serve warm with ranch, remoulade, or a spicy aioli.
What to Serve with Baked Green Tomatoes
- A drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze
- A side of creamy coleslaw
- Crispy bacon and lettuce for a BLT twist
Tips for the Best Baked Green Tomatoes
- Use firm green tomatoes – Soft ones won’t hold up well.
- For extra crispiness – Place on a wire rack over the baking sheet.
- Try different seasonings – Add cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a twist.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an air fryer instead?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and panko.
Are green tomatoes just unripe red tomatoes?
Yes! They’re firmer and tangier, making them perfect for frying or baking.
Conclusion
These Baked “Fried” Green Tomatoes are crispy, tangy, and full of flavor—without the extra oil from frying! Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Southern
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 320mg
Baked “Fried” Green Tomatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Craving the crispy, tangy goodness of Fried Green Tomatoes but want a lighter option? This baked version gives you all the crunch without deep-frying! Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and baked until golden brown, these tomatoes make the perfect appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
- Green tomatoes (3 medium, sliced ¼-inch thick)
- All-purpose flour (½ cup)
- Eggs (2, beaten)
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)
- Cornmeal (½ cup)
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated)
- Garlic powder (½ tsp)
- Paprika (½ tsp)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Prepare the Breading Stations – Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine panko, cornmeal, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bread the Tomato Slices – Dredge each tomato slice in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange & Bake – Place tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake – Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy! – Serve warm with ranch, remoulade, or a spicy aioli.
Notes
- Use firm green tomatoes – Soft ones won’t hold up well.
- For extra crispiness – Place on a wire rack over the baking sheet.
- Try different seasonings – Add cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Southern
