Description
A comforting and easy-to-make cheesy white bean tomato bake that’s perfect for quick dinners. This hearty dish combines creamy cannellini beans, savory sautéed onions and garlic, tangy crushed tomatoes, and a luscious blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with fresh herbs, it’s a delicious vegetarian meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (Can substitute with Great Northern or navy beans)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) crushed tomatoes
Seasonings and Cheese
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried basil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1.25 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (Can use gouda, cheddar, or smoky cheese blend)
- 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking the dish to perfection.
- Sauté Onions: In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Simmer Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate Beans: Gently stir in the drained cannellini beans and warm through for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they absorb the tomato-herb sauce.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the bean and tomato mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the bake to sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute cannellini beans with Great Northern or navy beans if preferred.
- For a different flavor profile, try using gouda, cheddar, or a smoky cheese blend instead of mozzarella.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure that all canned products are certified gluten-free.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
