Description
This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy white beans simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a hearty main course or a satisfying side, it combines simple ingredients into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Beans and Cheese
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Sauté: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors well.
- Add Beans: Stir the drained and rinsed white beans into the tomato sauce and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to marry.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Remove the skillet from heat. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the bean and tomato mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Take the skillet out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or alongside rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- To make this dish vegan, substitute regular cheese with dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese and top with seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- This bake works wonderfully as either a main dish or a hearty side.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your preference.
