Tomato Bacon Squares

The Tomato Bacon Squares are an irresistible blend of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all layered over a creamy garlic mayonnaise base. Baked to golden perfection on a flaky pizza crust and finished with gooey mozzarella, they’re the kind of savory treat that disappears quickly—so be sure to make extra!

Ideal for potlucks, brunch gatherings, or a casual night in, these flavorful squares are easy to prep and even easier to love. Their BLT-inspired flavor profile offers a modern twist on comfort food with a gourmet edge, turning simple ingredients into unforgettable bites.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 (12 oz) package bacon
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped and drained
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (13.8 oz) tube refrigerated pizza crust
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, chopped red bell pepper, tomatoes, and basil.
In a separate small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and minced garlic.
Unroll pizza crust and press it into a 12×15-inch rectangular baking sheet.
Spread the garlic mayo evenly over the crust. Top with the bacon-tomato mixture and sprinkle shredded mozzarella over everything.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before cutting into 24 squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 24 squares

Why People Love Tomato Bacon Squares

The popularity of this dish stems from its universal appeal. It hits all the right notes—salty bacon, sweet-tart tomatoes, creamy and garlicky base sauce, and gooey cheese. Each square offers a symphony of textures: the chew of baked dough, the crisp of bacon, the softness of cooked tomatoes, and the melt of mozzarella. It’s a great example of how basic pantry ingredients can transform into a gourmet-level appetizer.

Furthermore, it’s a flexible and forgiving dish. Whether served hot from the oven or at room temperature, it retains its appeal. Its square-cut presentation makes it ideal for events where guests want something flavorful, but also easy to eat with their hands. Think game day parties, family reunions, or even casual brunches.

Perfect Occasions to Serve This Dish

Tomato Bacon Squares are incredibly versatile. You can serve them at nearly any casual occasion and even dress them up for something more formal. Here are some common settings:

Game Day or Sports Night: These squares are the perfect finger food for snacking during football or basketball games.
Potlucks and Gatherings: They travel well, can be made ahead, and easily reheat in the oven.
Brunch Buffets: Their combination of eggs’ best friend—bacon—and fresh tomato makes them a brunch favorite.
Weeknight Dinners: When you want something quick yet flavorful, this is a go-to.
Holiday Parties: Dress it up with heirloom tomatoes and specialty bacon, and it becomes holiday table worthy.

A Deeper Dive into the Flavor Profile

One of the standouts of this recipe is the way it captures the core elements of comfort food: salty, fatty, tangy, and rich. The bacon is the undeniable star, lending smokiness and a crunchy texture. Tomatoes add a burst of acidity that cuts through the fat, while the basil introduces a fresh, herbaceous note.

The garlic mayonnaise acts as a creamy foundation, enhancing the savory notes and binding the ingredients together without being overpowering. Finally, the mozzarella cheese ties it all together, melting beautifully into the cracks and creating that satisfying, golden-brown finish that everyone craves.

This flavor balance makes Tomato Bacon Squares particularly addictive. Each bite is multidimensional and leaves you reaching for another piece before you’ve even swallowed the last.

Customization Options for All Diets

Though the original version features pork bacon and a dairy-based cheese, the recipe can be easily modified to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based bacon or crispy smoked tempeh instead. The umami from sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms can further mimic the meaty depth of bacon.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the regular pizza crust with a gluten-free alternative like a cauliflower crust or store-bought gluten-free dough.
Low-Carb/Keto Version: Use a thin layer of almond flour-based flatbread, or a cheese-and-egg base like a chaffle or fathead dough.
Dairy-Free Version: Opt for vegan mozzarella and a garlic aioli made from plant-based mayo or blended cashews.

The simplicity of the base flavors allows room for adaptation, so it’s a great canvas for experimentation.

Tips for Making It Perfect Every Time

Even though the recipe is straightforward, a few techniques can elevate it to the next level:

Drain Your Tomatoes: Be sure to remove excess liquid from the tomatoes to avoid a soggy crust. Let them sit in a colander for 5–10 minutes if needed.
Precook Bacon Thoroughly: Make sure the bacon is truly crispy before mixing it with the other toppings; soft bacon will lose its texture in the oven.
Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t offer the same vibrant flavor and aroma. Chiffonade fresh basil leaves for the best effect.
Spread Mayo Evenly: The garlic mayo should reach every corner of the crust to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven. Overbaking can lead to dried-out toppings or a tough crust. You want golden brown edges and bubbling cheese.

Why It’s a Great Recipe for Beginners

If you’re new to cooking, Tomato Bacon Squares are a forgiving entry point. The ingredients are easy to find and inexpensive. There’s no complicated preparation—just chop, mix, spread, and bake. There’s also a big “wow” factor when you pull the bubbling, golden tray from the oven. That sense of accomplishment can be very motivating for newer cooks and younger helpers in the kitchen.

It’s also a great recipe to cook with kids. They’ll enjoy spreading the mayo, sprinkling cheese, or layering toppings. It’s safe, relatively quick, and results in a meal that feels fun and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers (if there are any) store beautifully. Simply place squares in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or use a toaster oven for a quicker warm-up that preserves the crispiness.

Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust rubbery and the bacon chewy rather than crisp. If you’re planning to make these ahead for an event, consider assembling everything (minus the cheese), refrigerating it, and baking it fresh for best results.

A Dish That Transcends Seasons

Unlike many recipes that feel bound to a season, Tomato Bacon Squares are truly year-round. In summer, you can use fresh garden tomatoes and serve it at picnics. In colder months, it works as a warm, comforting appetizer during holiday gatherings. With minor adjustments, it can fit into nearly any season or event type.

Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of iced tea in the summer, or serve it alongside a hearty soup and mulled cider in winter. It’s as flexible as it is flavorful.

Conclusion: Why Tomato Bacon Squares Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

Tomato Bacon Squares are more than just a party food—they’re a delicious example of how simplicity can be utterly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, feeding a family on a busy night, or just craving something comforting and savory, this dish delivers. The balance of crispy, creamy, tangy, and cheesy elements makes it a consistent favorite among all age groups.

It’s customizable, dependable, and visually appealing—a golden square of goodness that’s always welcome at the table. With just a handful of common ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this recipe can become a staple in your kitchen.