Description
This Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake is a quick, hearty dish packed with creamy white beans, savory garlic tomato sauce, and melted cheese. In just 30 minutes, you'll have a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and versatile. Perfect as a main course or a side, this dish is both satisfying and customizable, with options for vegan or extra protein.
Ingredients
For the Bean Bake:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Add the White Beans: Stir in the drained white beans and mix well to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the beans to absorb the flavors.
- Add Cheese & Bake: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or a green salad.
Notes
- Make it vegan by swapping the cheese for dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese.
- Add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for extra protein.
- Boost the veggie content by incorporating spinach, kale, or zucchini into the bake.
- For extra spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
