Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Tart Recipe: Quick, Delicious, and Perfect for Any Meal

Discover the joy of a fresh Tomato Basil Tart, a perfect centerpiece for brunch, a light summer lunch, or a delightful dinner. This recipe guides you to a flaky, from-scratch crust that requires no par-baking, delivering cheesy, herbaceous perfection in just 45 minutes!

Raise your hand if you love a good brunch! I’m raising both hands right now, enthusiastically. There’s something truly special about gathering around a table, enjoying delicious food, and making memories. And when it comes to elegant yet effortlessly impressive dishes, a savory tart always steals the show. Specifically, a homemade tomato basil tart that comes together in under 45 minutes, including a buttery, tender crust made entirely from scratch – no par-baking required! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary secret weapon for hosts and home cooks alike.

I’ve personally made this Quick & Easy Tomato Basil Tart for countless bridal showers, baby showers, and numerous brunches, and I can confidently say it receives applause every single time. It’s that good. Even my husband, who rates his general liking for tomatoes a meager 2 out of 10, absolutely adores this tart. There’s just so much to cherish in every bite that transcends the simple tomato. Imagine a crust that takes mere minutes to assemble, brimming with vibrant fresh chopped basil, a generous blend of cheeses (and if you’re like me, even more cheese!), a subtle hint of garlic, a touch of salt and pepper, all suspended in a creamy, rich egg custard. Baked until golden brown and firm, it’s nothing short of cheesy, savory perfection.

Why This Tomato Basil Tart Will Become Your New Favorite

This isn’t just another tart recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to create something truly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s why this tomato basil tart stands out:

Unbeatable Speed and Simplicity

In a world where time is precious, this tart delivers gourmet results in a flash. From start to finish, you’re looking at just 45 minutes. The secret lies in our ingenious crust recipe that’s designed to be effortlessly rolled out and baked without the need for pre-baking. This significantly cuts down on prep time and makes the whole process enjoyable, even for novice bakers. It’s perfect for those spontaneous gatherings or when you need a quick, impressive meal.

Flavors That Sing

The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, and a blend of creamy cheeses is simply divine. The tart offers a beautiful balance of flavors – the slight tang of goat cheese (or the familiar comfort of cheddar), the herbaceous notes of basil, the subtle warmth of garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious symphony of taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The richness of the custard complements the flaky crust, making every bite a delightful experience.

Incredibly Versatile for Any Occasion

While I often serve this tart for brunch, its versatility knows no bounds. It’s equally fantastic for a light summer lunch, a elegant appetizer, or even a simple yet satisfying dinner. Serve it warm straight from the oven, or enjoy it chilled – it holds up beautifully either way. This makes it an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, or meal prep. You can pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal or let it shine on its own.

Kid-Friendly Customization

If you have picky eaters at home, or simply prefer a milder flavor, this recipe is easily adaptable. While the original recipe features tangy goat cheese, you can effortlessly switch it out for shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. I’ve personally tried it both ways and love them equally! The cheddar version offers a classic, comforting taste that’s often a hit with children and those who prefer less assertive flavors, making it a truly family-friendly dish.

From-Scratch Crust: Easier Than You Think!

The idea of making a crust from scratch might intimidate some, but trust me, this recipe’s crust is remarkably forgiving and quick to prepare. It comes together in just about 5 minutes of active prep, using simple pantry staples. The satisfaction of serving a truly homemade tart, crust and all, is unparalleled, and guests will undoubtedly be impressed by your culinary prowess. This savory crust recipe is truly a keeper and one you’ll want to use again and again.

A perfectly baked individual tomato basil tart.

The homemade tart crust, prepped and ready.

Crafting the Perfect Tomato Basil Tart Crust

The foundation of any great tart is its crust, and this one is a revelation. Adapted from the brilliant minds at Smitten Kitchen, this recipe yields a tender, flaky crust without the fuss of par-baking. This means less time waiting and more time enjoying! While I occasionally resort to store-bought frozen tart shells when I’m truly pressed for time (and usually par-bake them according to package directions), this homemade version is so simple and superior in taste, it’s always my preferred choice. Keep an eye on your baking time: if the recipe on a store-bought box suggests baking longer than 27 minutes, par-baking is usually a good idea.

Step-by-Step Crust Preparation:

Combine Dry Ingredients and Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Add the cold, unsalted butter, which should be diced into small cubes. Using two forks or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse oat flakes or tiny peas. The key here is to keep the butter as cold as possible to ensure a flaky crust.
Add Egg and Form Dough: Add the large egg to the mixture. Use a fork to gently combine the egg with the flour-butter mixture. Once loosely combined, dump the mixture out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead and Observe: Work the dough with your hands, pressing and folding it until it starts to come together and hold its shape. Don’t be alarmed if the dough feels a little tougher than your average pie dough; this is perfectly normal for this particular recipe. Avoid overworking it, as this can develop the gluten too much and result in a tough crust.
Rolling and Shaping:
- For Individual Tarts (4-inch): If you’re making several smaller tarts, roll the dough out evenly. Place your individual tart pans on the dough and cut circles 1½ to 2 inches larger than the pan size. Carefully transfer the dough circles into the pans, pressing them gently into the base and up the sides. Rework any leftover dough as necessary to form more tarts, ensuring you don’t overwork it. This recipe typically yields enough dough for four 4-inch tart shells.
- For a 9-inch Tart: If opting for a single large tart, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Gently press the dough into the base and up the fluted sides, working out any air bubbles as you go. Crimp the edges decoratively or simply trim them flush with the pan.
Chill the Dough: Once the tart shell(s) are formed, place them in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. This chilling period is crucial as it allows the butter to firm up again, which prevents the crust from shrinking during baking and helps maintain its flaky texture. While the dough chills, you can proceed with preparing the delicious filling.

Assembling the Irresistible Tomato Basil Tart Filling

With your perfect crust chilling, it’s time to whip up the star of the show: the incredibly flavorful filling. This creamy custard, bursting with fresh ingredients and savory notes, is what transforms a simple tart into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Step-by-Step Filling Preparation:

Prepare the Custard Base: In a medium bowl, combine the large egg, heavy cream (half-and-half is a suitable substitute if you prefer a lighter option), and milk. To this liquid mixture, add 4 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes for a subtle warmth, garlic powder, fresh chopped basil, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and well-integrated. This ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the tart.
Fold in the Cheese: Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese. If you’re catering to less adventurous palates or just prefer a different flavor profile, this is the stage where you would add your 4 ounces of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese instead. Toss the cheese gently to coat it with the custard mixture.
Arrange Tomatoes and Fill Crust: Retrieve your chilled tart shell(s) from the refrigerator. Arrange the halved grape or cherry tomatoes evenly at the base of your tart crust. These little bursts of sweetness will create a beautiful presentation and add a fresh, juicy element to the baked tart. If you’re using individual pans, divide the filling mixture evenly among each tart shell, making sure each one gets a good share of the cheese and herbs.
Final Cheese Sprinkle: Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese over the top of the filling. This not only adds an extra layer of savory flavor but also helps create a lovely golden-brown crust on top of the custard during baking.

Baking and Serving Your Delicious Tart

The moment of truth! Baking this tart to golden perfection is the final step in creating a dish that will impress and delight everyone at your table.

Baking Instructions:

Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Place an oven rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly cooked crust. Place your tart pan(s) on a baking tray – this makes it easier to transfer in and out of the oven and catches any potential drips, although this recipe rarely has any.
Bake to Perfection:
- For Individual Tarts: Bake for 24-27 minutes.
- For a Large 9-inch Tart: Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Keep an eye on the tart; you’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust and a filling that is firm to the touch in the center. If you desire an even darker, crispier crust, you can bake it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook the filling.
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, remove the tart(s) from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. This cooling time is essential as it allows the custard to fully set, preventing it from being too runny when sliced. It also makes the tart easier to handle and ensures a clean cut.

Serving Suggestions and Storage:

This tomato basil tart is incredibly versatile. Serve it as the star of your next brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and mimosas, or as a sophisticated appetizer at a dinner party. For a light lunch or dinner, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. Garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma. The best part? It makes fabulous leftovers! Enjoy them cold for a quick snack or reheat them in a 300ºF (150ºC) oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back that warm, cheesy goodness. You’ll thank me for this recipe; I promise, you will!

Disclosure: All opinions expressed are my own. Organic Creamery provided product for this post. I have not received any monetary compensation for this post.

Other Delightful Recipes You Might Enjoy:

Secret Ingredient Tomato Basil Soup
Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Salad
Fresh Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Garlic Butter Tomato Baked Chicken
Comforting Tuscan Tomato and Bread Soup
Eggs in Purgatory (Eggs simmered in Tomato Sauce)

Yield: 4 mini or 1-9inch tart

Quick & Easy Tomato Basil Tart

Pin This Recipe

Tomato basil tarts are perfect to serve for brunch or any meal of the day. Switch out the goat cheese with cheddar for a kid-friendly meal. Tomato basil tarts are ready in 45 minutes including a from-scratch crust that doesn’t require any par-baking!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 Ratings)

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 and 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, diced
1 large egg

For the Filling:

1 large egg
1/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
1/4 cup milk
6 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
3 oz crumbled goat cheese (such as Organic Creamery) (see note)
15 – 20 grape (or cherry) tomatoes, halved

Instructions

To make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and butter. Using two forks or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until the butter resembles oat flakes or tiny peas. Add the egg and use a fork to combine the flour mixture with the egg. Dump the mixture out onto a floured surface. Work the dough until it starts to hold together. The dough is a little tougher than your average when working with it, don’t be alarmed. If you’re making individual tarts roll the dough out, place the individual tart pans on the dough and cut a circle 11/2 – 2 inches larger than your pan, rework leftover dough as necessary to form more tarts. If you’re using a 9-inch tart pan, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Place the dough at the base of the pan, work out any air bubbles, crimp edges. Refrigerate the tart-shell(s) for 10 minutes while you prepare the tart filling.
For the tart filling: Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, combine the egg, heavy cream, milk, 4 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper and whisk until combined. Fold in the goat cheese. Divide filling into tartshell(s). Top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese. Place the tart pan(s) on a baking tray and bake for 24 – 27 minutes for individual tarts and 30 – 35 minutes for large tart. For a darker crust, bake an additional 1-2 minutes. Let cool 10 – 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

4 oz of cheddar or mozzarella cheese can be used in place of the goat cheese.
Leftovers can be reheated in a 300ºF oven for 5 – 7 minutes.
Tart-shell recipe adapted from Smitten Kitchen.

Have you made this recipe?

If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and a comment below. You can also share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #LITTLESPICEJAR, I’d love to see what you made!