Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, saucy, and cheesy. It’s budget-friendly, requires minimal prep, and uses pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes. It’s versatile enough to enjoy as a main course or side, and can be customized with your favorite herbs, veggies, or cheeses. Best of all, it bakes in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Canned white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- Canned crushed or diced tomatoes
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In an oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add the white beans to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella (or provolone) evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan if using.
- Transfer the skillet or dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a golden, crispy cheese topping.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Mix in roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
- Use a mix of cheeses like fontina, cheddar, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Stir in cooked pasta or gnocchi before baking for a heartier casserole.
- Top with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy finish.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based cheese alternatives.
- Add cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
You can freeze this dish before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble without the cheese topping, then add cheese before baking fresh.
FAQs
What type of white beans work best?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal for this dish because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just cook them down longer to break down the flesh and develop flavor.
Is this dish vegan?
Not as written, but you can make it vegan by using plant-based cheese alternatives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
Crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.
Can I use dried beans?
Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them until tender before using in the recipe.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes, and broil only briefly if desired. Cover with foil if needed.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken can be added before baking.
Will it still taste good without cheese?
Yes, it will still be flavorful due to the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Try topping with seasoned breadcrumbs or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free topping.
How can I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.
Conclusion
Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. With its creamy beans, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, it checks every box for weeknight comfort food. Versatile, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
