Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick and delicious dish to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than this mouthwatering Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake! This recipe is a lifesaver for those days when you need a comforting meal without the hassle. The combination of creamy cannellini beans, tangy San Marzano tomatoes, hearty spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy weekend at home.

I stumbled upon this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake when my fridge was almost empty, and it has become a family favorite ever since. The kids can’t get enough of the crispy cheese topping that perfectly complements the tender beans and flavorful tomatoes. Leftovers are a rare find with this dish, but if you happen to have some, simply pop them in the oven for a quick reheat to restore that irresistible cheesy goodness.

Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast, a tomato lover, or simply in need of a hassle-free meal, this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake has got you covered. Embrace the rustic charm of Italian and Mediterranean flavors coming together in a single skillet, creating a dish that is as versatile as it is delicious. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a cheesy delight that will bring warmth to your table and smiles to your loved ones’ faces.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy cannellini white beans provide a hearty and satisfying base for the dish, absorbing the flavors of the seasonings and tomatoes.
• San Marzano peeled tomatoes add a sweet-tart element, enhancing the overall taste profile of the bake.
• The cheesy topping made with mozzarella creates a gooey, indulgent texture that browns beautifully over the beans, making it a crowd-pleaser and a comforting meal option.
• Substituting mozzarella with Fontina or provolone can offer different melting qualities and unique flavor nuances to the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a comforting meal without the hassle, this recipe is a crowd-friendly skillet dish that comes together fast.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable based on what you have in your pantry – you can swap beans, tomatoes, and cheese to cater to your preferences.
• Family Favorite: Loved by cheese enthusiasts, this dish will have your family begging for more and even considering it better than pizza.
• Leftovers Friendly: Enjoy leftovers for up to three days by reheating in the oven to maintain the gooey cheese and crispy beans texture.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with creamy white beans, fresh spinach, and flavorful tomatoes, this dish offers a balanced and nourishing meal.
• Cultural Fusion: Combining Italian and Mediterranean flavors, this recipe brings the rustic farmhouse charm to your table with every bite.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice and cheese levels to suit your taste preferences, making it a comforting and personalized dish every time.
• Texture and Flavor: Creamy cannellini beans absorb the seasonings and tomato juices, while melted mozzarella creates a gooey and satisfying topping.

Ingredients for Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe

Produce

• 3 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 handfuls fresh baby spinach
• 4 to 5 San Marzano peeled tomatoes

Canned Goods

• 2 cans (425 g each) Cannellini white beans, rinsed and drained

Dairy

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Oils & Seasonings

• 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 0.25 to 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Pro Tips for Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavor profile of the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake, consider adding a touch of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano just before serving. These small additions can elevate the dish and add a burst of freshness.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the dish to your liking. Fontina or provolone can bring unique flavors and textures to the bake, adding a delicious twist to the classic mozzarella. Be bold and try different cheeses to find your perfect combination.

Pro Tip 3: For a quick and easy variation, try serving the cheesy white bean tomato bake over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for a heartier meal. The tomato bean filling also makes a great dip for parties when served with tortilla chips or as a spread on toasted bread slices. Get creative with how you enjoy this versatile dish!

How to Make Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 245 degrees Celsius.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Heat olive oil in a 25 cm ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté sliced garlic until lightly golden, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Cook Tomatoes

Carefully add San Marzano peeled tomatoes to the skillet and mash using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon. Cook for 1 minute, adjusting heat to prevent garlic from burning.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Spinach

Add fresh spinach and rinsed Cannellini beans to the skillet. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until spinach wilts slightly and ingredients are mixed evenly.

Step 5: Top With Cheese

Spread the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of the mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and starts to brown.

Step 7: Broil for Colour

To achieve more browning, broil in the oven on the broiler setting for up to 2 minutes, monitoring closely.

Step 8: Serve

Take out of the oven and serve hot, preferably accompanied by tortilla chips.

Storage Tips

To store the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake, allow any leftovers to cool completely before covering and refrigerating the skillet. Leftover portions can stay good for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, it is recommended to use the oven to remelt the cheese and crisp up the beans a little at the edges, as microwaving can result in rubbery cheese.

For those looking to make substitutions or variations, other types of beans such as butter beans or navy beans can be used, and regular peeled plum tomatoes are suitable if San Marzano tomatoes are not available. Different cheeses like fresh mozzarella or sharp provolone can be used for unique flavor profiles. Additionally, ingredients like kale or chard can be swapped in for the spinach, though they may require slightly longer cooking times to soften.

The Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, such as with crunchy tortilla chips, piled onto baked potatoes or pasta, or used as a hearty dip or spread. For brunch, cracking a couple of eggs onto the skillet before baking can add extra protein. Remember to adjust the spice and cheese levels to suit your preferences, and use ingredients that you have on hand to make this comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that brings everyone together at the table.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cannellini beans on hand, butter beans or navy beans make excellent substitutes, providing a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the dish well. Additionally, you can easily use ripe, peeled fresh tomatoes instead of San Marzano varieties. While San Marzano tomatoes offer a distinct sweetness, any flavorful tomato you have available will work wonderfully in this recipe.

For a twist on the cheese, consider using Fontina or provolone as alternatives to mozzarella. Each cheese offers different melting qualities and flavor profiles, allowing you to customize the dish to your preferences. Remember, it’s best to enjoy this bake freshly baked to savor the optimal cheese texture. If preparing ahead of time, a brief reheat will help restore the meltiness of the cheese for a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try scooping the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake into individual bread bowls for a fun and interactive meal experience. The combination of warm, gooey cheese, savory beans, and tangy tomatoes nestled in a crispy bread bowl will delight your family and guests.

Another idea is to layer the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake between lasagna noodles for a delicious twist on classic lasagna. The creamy beans, tangy tomatoes, and bubbling cheese will create a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Serve with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Cheesy White Bean Tomato Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of white beans if I don’t have cannellini beans?

Yes, you can easily swap in butter beans or navy beans in place of cannellini beans for this recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute fresh mozzarella torn into chunks or a sharp provolone for a different flavor profile and melting quality.

How should I reheat leftovers of the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake?

To reheat leftovers, cool completely, cover, and refrigerate the skillet. Reheat in the oven to remelt the cheese and crisp the beans at the edges. Avoid microwaving to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.

Can I use fresh ripe tomatoes instead of canned San Marzano tomatoes?

Yes, you can use peeled ripe fresh tomatoes in place of canned San Marzano tomatoes. San Marzano varieties offer sweetness, but any flavorful tomato will work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is truly a versatile and comforting dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a delicious crowd-pleaser for gatherings, this recipe has got you covered. The blend of creamy cannellini beans, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese creates a harmonious medley of flavors that will leave everyone craving for more.

So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake and let its irresistible aroma fill your kitchen. Experiment with different cheese varieties or spice levels to suit your preferences, and make it your own signature dish. Embrace the simplicity and heartiness of this recipe, and watch it become a staple on your dining table. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with each bite of this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake!