Garlicky Scalloped Tomatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the garlic cloves on a cutting board and mash the garlic with the side of the knife until it forms a smooth paste.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and cook for about 5 minutes, tossing often, until the bread is golden brown.

3. Meanwhile, stir together the tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic paste in a large bowl to combine. Add the tomato mixture into the skillet and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down. Remove from the heat and stir in the basil.

4. Pour the tomato mixture into a large shallow baking dish (I used a large oval baker but a 9×13 dish should work as well) and sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the tomatoes are bubbling.

Recipe adapted from Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics.