Bake Tomato Slices Atop French Toast

Baked tomato French toast is an easy, comforting breakfast or brunch dish that comes together in about 30 minutes.

Baked Tomato French Toast

3 large (1 pounds) fresh tomatoes

16 slices (8 ounces) 1/4-inch thick firm white bread, crusts removed

2 tablespoons butter, melted

12 slices (about 8 ounces) Canadian bacon

2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

8 eggs

3 cups half-and-half

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Core tomatoes. Cut off a thin slice from the top and bottom of each tomato; reserve for another use. Cut each tomato into four slices; set aside.

In a 15- by 10- by 1-inch baking pan place bread in a single layer, cutting to fit, if necessary. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush bread with butter; turn slices over so buttered side is against the pan. Arrange Canadian bacon over bread; sprinkle with 1-3/4 cups of the cheese; set aside.

In a large bowl lightly beat eggs with half-and-half, salt and black pepper until blended; slowly pour over bread and cheese. Bake, uncovered, in a preheated 350-degree oven until nearly firm, about 15 minutes.

Arrange reserved tomato slices over the top; bake until set, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese; cut into squares and serve.

Yield: 6 servings.