Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake

Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake

This Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake is cozy, hearty, and full of rich, savory flavor. Creamy white beans simmer in a garlicky tomato sauce, then get topped with melty cheese that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. It’s an easy, comforting dish that works beautifully as a main or a satisfying side.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced

Tomato Sauce Base

1 can 14–15 oz crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ins

Fresh spinach or kale
Sautéed mushrooms or zucchini
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Beans

Stir drained white beans into the tomato sauce.
Let everything simmer together for 3–4 minutes so beans absorb flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the bean mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Bea

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

Use canned white beans like cannellini or great northern for best texture.
Drain and rinse beans well to avoid excess liquid.
Crushed or diced tomatoes both work; adjust texture to preference.
Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried herbs are fine.
Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend melt beautifully on top.
Bake uncovered for a bubbly, lightly browned cheese layer.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving to set slightly.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

📝 Notes

Use short pasta like elbows, shells, or rotini for even cooking.
Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking.
Add veggies early if firm, later if tender.
Whole milk creates the creamiest sauce.
Shred cheese fresh for smoother melting.
Adjust thickness with a splash of milk before serving.
Best served fresh but reheats well with added liquid.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Keyword Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake