Cheesy 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.
- Author: Mick
- 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
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)
- 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