Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Creamy white beans meld with savory tomato sauce and melty cheese for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 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
- ¼ cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the white beans, tomato sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Step 3: Pour the bean and tomato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- 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 for about 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese has melted and started to brown.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For added spice, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomato sauce.
- Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for extra freshness.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them altogether to keep this dish gluten-free.
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 to keep the cheese melty. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak and cook dried white beans fully before using. Canned beans save time and offer consistent texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and can be assembled ahead to bake when ready, making it great for busy weeknight meals.
PrintCheesy White Bean Tomato Bake Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake featuring creamy white beans simmered in tomato sauce and garlic, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and optional crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix beans and sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained white beans, tomato sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Assemble the bake: Pour the bean and tomato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese and breadcrumbs: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. If using, also sprinkle bread crumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake until bubbly: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main.
Notes
- You can use any variety of white beans such as cannellini or great Northern beans.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bean mixture.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven; watch for bubbly sauce and golden cheese.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, omit the bread crumbs or use gluten-free bread crumbs.
Keywords: white bean bake, cheesy bean casserole, tomato bean bake, vegetarian casserole, easy baked beans recipe
