Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines creamy beans with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a tasty side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 can white beans
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a little oil or butter.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the white beans, tomato sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to blend the flavors.
- Step 3: Pour the bean and tomato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If using, add the bread crumbs for a crispy topping.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the bean mixture.
- Swap mozzarella for a sharper cheese like aged cheddar or provolone for a different twist.
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger taste or garlic powder for convenience.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for brightness.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of cream or Greek yogurt before baking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried white beans instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak and cook the dried beans fully before using to ensure they are tender and safe to eat.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
It can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
PrintCheesy White Bean Tomato Bake Recipe
This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting and hearty vegetarian casserole combining creamy white beans and tangy tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy-to-make dish that works perfectly as a satisfying main or side, delivering rich flavor with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish lightly with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Bean and Tomato Base: In a large bowl, combine the drained white beans, tomato sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the bean and tomato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If using, add a layer of bread crumbs for extra crunch.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese topping has melted and turned golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this flavorful cheesy white bean tomato bake warm as a main or side dish.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, omit bread crumbs or use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- You can add chopped fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
- To add protein, consider mixing in cooked sausage or shredded chicken before baking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
Keywords: cheesy white bean bake, tomato bean casserole, vegetarian casserole, easy baked bean dish, mozzarella bean bake
