Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the frozen deep-dish piecrust in your pie pan and bake it empty for 10 minutes until lightly golden. This pre-baking step prevents a soggy bottom crust.

While the crust bakes, slice your 3 large tomatoes into 1⁄4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer in a colander placed over a bowl or in your sink. Sprinkle each tomato slice generously with the 1 teaspoon of salt.

Let them sit for 20 minutes-the salt draws out excess moisture, which is crucial for preventing a watery pie.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 3⁄4 cup mayonnaise, 1⁄4 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, and 1⁄2 cup chopped green onions. Stir until everything is well incorporated and creamy.

After 20 minutes of draining, gently pat the tomato slices with paper towels to remove any remaining surface moisture. This extra step ensures your Brenda Gantt tomato pie won’t become soggy.

Arrange half of your prepared tomato slices in the bottom of the pre-baked piecrust, overlapping them slightly if needed. Sprinkle this layer with 1 tablespoon of fresh basil (or half the dried basil), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper.

Spread half of your cheese mixture evenly over the seasoned tomatoes, creating a creamy blanket that covers the first layer completely.

Layer the remaining tomato slices on top of the cheese mixture. Season again with the remaining basil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper.

Spread the remaining cheese mixture over the second tomato layer. Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top-this creates that irresistible golden crust.

Place your assembled pie in the preheated 350°F oven. Bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until the pie is bubbly around the edges, the cheese is melted and golden, and the crust edges are nicely browned.

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with extra fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.