I’m so happy to share this Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice recipe because it looks fancy but is very easy to make. Juicy tomatoes are filled with warm rice, savory chicken sausage, and a little cheese. Everything bakes together until soft, cozy, and full of simple flavor. It is perfect for busy nights when you still want something special on the table.
Level: Easy
Total Time: about 35 minutes
Prep Time: about 15 minutes
Cook Time: about 15 to 20 minutes
Yield: about 4 servings
Course: Side Dish or Light Main
Cuisine: American
I still remember the first time I made stuffed tomatoes like this at home. I was surprised by how fun they looked once they came out of the oven. They felt special even though the steps were very simple.
This recipe uses just a few everyday ingredients you may already have. Cooked rice, chicken sausage, and cheese are mixed together and tucked inside fresh tomatoes. The oven does the rest of the work.
I like this dish for quick dinners, simple lunches, or even as a party side. Add a salad or fruit on the side, and you have a complete and comforting meal.
How to Make Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice
This dish brings together soft tomatoes and a warm, savory filling in a very easy way. Here is how it all comes together:
• Fresh tomatoes hollowed out and ready for filling
• Cooked rice for a soft and hearty base
• Chicken sausage for flavor and protein
• Parmesan cheese mixed inside and on top
• A short bake to warm everything through
It is a simple oven baked recipe with bright flavor and very little stress.
Ingredients
• 8 Roma or other medium sized tomatoes
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 3 ounces cooked chicken sausage, about 1 link
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, optional
Directions
- Heat the Oven:
- Heat your oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet or lightly grease it so the tomatoes do not stick.
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Lay each tomato on its side and slice off the top.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and soft inside, then discard them.
- Season and Drain:
- Sprinkle a little salt inside each tomato.
- Turn them upside down on paper towels so extra liquid can drain while you make the filling.
- Chop the Sausage:
- Place the cooked chicken sausage in a food processor or chop it very finely with a knife.
- This helps spread the flavor evenly in the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cooked rice, chopped sausage, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until everything looks evenly mixed.
- Fill the Tomatoes:
- Place the tomatoes cut side up on the baking sheet.
- Spoon the rice mixture into each tomato, gently mounding it on top.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over each stuffed tomato.
- This helps create a lightly golden top.
- Bake:
- Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the filling is hot and the tomatoes are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Process Details
• Hollowing the Tomatoes: Removing the inside makes room for the filling and keeps the dish from becoming watery.
• Using Cooked Rice: Starting with cooked rice saves time and helps the filling heat evenly.
• Finely Chopped Sausage: Small pieces spread flavor through every bite.
• Cheese Inside and On Top: Mixing cheese into the filling adds richness, and topping it helps with light browning.
• Short Bake Time: Baking just until heated keeps the tomatoes soft but still holding their shape.
Tips for Success
• Roma tomatoes are easier to work with and hold their shape well.
• Let the tomatoes drain upside down so the filling stays thick.
• Taste the rice mixture before stuffing and adjust salt if needed.
• You can use white rice instead of brown rice if that is what you have.
• Leftover filling can be served on the plate under the tomatoes.
• Add herbs like parsley only at the end for fresh flavor.
Serving Ideas
• Serve as a light main dish with a green salad on the side.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a fuller dinner.
• Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up juices on the plate.
• Serve smaller tomatoes as a party appetizer.
• Top with extra herbs right before serving for color.
Storage & Freezing
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: Freezing is not ideal since tomatoes can become very soft, but the rice filling alone can be frozen.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge, then stuff and bake the tomatoes on serving day.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving)
• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~11g
• Carbohydrates: ~29g
• Fat: ~7g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sodium: ~700mg
• Sugar: ~3g
Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice are simple, cozy, and fun to serve. The soft tomatoes, warm rice, and savory sausage make a comforting mix that feels special without being hard to make.
I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. It is an easy way to turn a few basic ingredients into something colorful and satisfying.