Description
Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting, protein-packed dish made with white beans, juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Perfect as a meatless main or hearty side, it’s easy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Add drained white beans and simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice, pasta, or quinoa.
Notes
- Add baby spinach or kale before baking for a nutritional boost.
- Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Chickpeas, butter beans, or kidney beans can be substituted.
- To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- For added flavor, deglaze with a splash of white wine before adding tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
