If you’re looking for a dish that combines wholesome goodness with vibrant flavors, the White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful, one-pan meal brings together creamy white beans and aromatic basil pesto for a comforting yet fresh experience. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Plus, it’s loaded with plant-based protein and bursting with Mediterranean charm that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple and straightforward ingredients come together to create this flavorful dish. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s adding creaminess, bright herbal notes, or a satisfying cheesy crust.
- White beans (2 cans, 15 oz each): These provide a creamy, hearty base packed with protein and fiber, perfect for a nutritious meal.
- Basil pesto (1 cup): This star ingredient brings fresh, herby, and garlicky flavor that transforms the beans into a tantalizing dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Used to grease the baking dish, helping prevent sticking and adding a subtle richness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Amplifies the savory depth without overwhelming the gentle bean flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a hint of heat to keep things interesting and balanced.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Creates a golden, bubbly topping that delivers umami and texture contrast.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): For garnishing, they add a pop of color and fresh aroma right before serving.
How to Make White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later on.
Step 2: Prep the Beans
Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly. This rinsing removes excess sodium and helps the beans absorb the pesto flavor more effectively. Place the clean beans into a large bowl so they’re ready to mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Beans with Pesto and Spices
Pour the basil pesto over the beans and sprinkle in garlic powder and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir gently but thoroughly until every bean is generously coated in that fragrant, herby sauce. This step is where the magic truly starts to happen.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Transfer your pesto-coated beans to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. If you enjoy a cheesy topping, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. The cheese not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden crust that makes this bake irresistible.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Warm
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the beans heat through completely, the pesto melds with the beans, and the Parmesan cheese forms a lovely golden layer. Keep an eye on the color to get it just right.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top the bake with fresh basil leaves to brighten the dish visually and add an extra layer of herbal fragrance. Serve this White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe warm for the best experience.
How to Serve White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are an obvious favorite, but you can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese to elevate the visual appeal and add crunch. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the richness and shine of the dish just before serving.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a crisp contrast. If you want something heartier, crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables completes the meal perfectly, soaking up any leftover pesto flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it family-style straight from the baking dish to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. For a more elegant presentation, portion the bake into individual ramekins or shallow bowls, garnishing each with a fresh basil sprig. You can even scoop it into warm pita pockets or spoon it over polenta for an exciting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pesto from drying out. It makes for a quick, tasty lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the bake for up to one month. Make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. Alternatively, a microwave will do in a pinch—just cover and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the beans.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto is fantastic in the White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe because you can customize the flavors and freshness to your liking. Whether you make it with basil, spinach, or kale, the results will be delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can easily make it vegan by skipping the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based alternative. The beans and pesto already provide a hearty, flavorful base without needing dairy.
What type of white beans works best?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal because they have a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with basil pesto. You can use other white beans, but these hold up best when baked.
Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even artichoke hearts can add color, texture, and layers of flavor to the dish. Just toss them in with the beans and pesto and bake as usual.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle kick, not overwhelming heat. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the flakes altogether; the pesto already packs plenty of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trying the White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe is like giving your weeknight dinners a delicious upgrade without any fuss. It’s cozy, nutritious, and bursting with fresh flavors that will make you feel good inside and out. If you haven’t already, treat yourself to this easy yet impressive dish—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal.
Print
White Bean and Pesto Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This White Bean and Pesto Bake is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring creamy white beans blended with fragrant basil pesto and topped with Parmesan cheese, this dish is baked to perfection for a warm, comforting meal that’s both vegetarian and easy to make.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Prepare Beans: Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and preserve freshness. Place them into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Pesto and Seasonings: Add the basil pesto to the beans along with garlic powder and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir well until the beans are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pesto-coated beans into the prepared baking dish, spreading them into an even layer. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired for added richness and a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the beans are thoroughly heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm as a satisfying main or side dish.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans before mixing with pesto.
- Use homemade pesto to control salt content and add fresh flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before baking for a bright, tangy twist.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or mixed green salad for a complete meal.
- Make it vegan by omitting Parmesan or using a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
