Baked Provolone with Tomato Sauce Recipe

20 min

2 servings

The baked provolone is rich, creamy, and slightly nutty, with a gooey texture that contrasts beautifully with the tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce. The thyme adds an earthy, herbaceous note, while the optional garlic introduces a subtle, savory kick. The result is a warm, indulgent appetizer perfect for sharing.

For a bolder flavor, try provolone piccante or add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy twist. Enjoy!

Provolone is an Italian semi-hard cheese, originating from Southern Italy, particularly the Campania and Puglia regions. It's made from cow's milk and has a smooth, slightly firm texture that becomes delightfully gooey and stretchy when melted. Provolone comes in two varieties: dolce mild and sweet) and piccante (sharp and tangy). For this recipe, either type works, but dolce is often preferred for its creamy, approachable flavor. When baked, provolone develops a rich, savory taste with a slightly nutty and buttery profile, pairing perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and aromatic thyme in this dish.

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Tomato sauce: 4 tablespoons (60 ml for Europeans / ¼ cup for Americans)
• Provolone cheese (one round): approximately 200-250 grams (7-9 ounces)
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon (5 ml for Europeans / 1 tsp for Americans)
• Optional: 1-2 garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped
• Baguette (for serving): 1, sliced and toasted until crispy

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F for Americans).

Pour 4 tablespoons (60 ml / ¼ cup) of tomato sauce into the bottom of a small, round oven-safe baking dish.

Place the round provolone cheese on top of the tomato sauce.

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon (5 ml / 1 tsp) of dried thyme evenly over the cheese. If desired, add minced garlic (1-2 cloves) for extra flavor.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, stretchy, and bubbly, and the tomato sauce is simmering around the edges.

Serve hot with crispy, toasted baguette slices for dipping.

Chef's Note

For a bolder flavor, try provolone piccante or add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy twist. Enjoy!