Introduction
Are you craving a warm, hearty dish that’s not only delicious but also super easy to prepare? Look no further than this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake. Perfectly balanced with savory flavors, creamy cheese, and wholesome beans, this recipe will be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish offers both comfort and nutrition, and it’s a complete vegetarian delight.
What’s even better? It only takes 30 minutes to make, and you’ll need just one pan to prepare it. This means less cleanup, and more time to enjoy your meal and the company around you. So, if you’re looking for a meal that’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place.
What is the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake?
The Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting, vegetarian dish that blends the earthy goodness of cannellini beans with the tangy flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes and the richness of melted cheese. It’s an oven-baked masterpiece that creates the perfect balance of textures—from the creamy beans to the bubbly, golden cheese on top.
This dish is a one-pan wonder, which means you don’t need multiple pots and pans to create this comforting meal. Whether you’re looking for a new addition to your weekly meal rotation or you want to impress your guests with something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Origin of the Recipe
The concept of combining beans, tomatoes, and cheese is rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italy, where ingredients like beans, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella are staples. This recipe brings together flavors inspired by Italian cooking with a modern twist, using fire-roasted tomatoes and the addition of balsamic vinegar for depth. While this version is distinctly vegetarian, it is inspired by rustic Mediterranean dishes that emphasize wholesome, hearty ingredients.
Tomato and bean dishes are popular in many parts of the world, from Mediterranean to South American cuisines. The Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a fusion of those global influences, updated with contemporary flavors that make it accessible and easy to prepare for any home cook.
Ingredients for the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish. These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful meal.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and adding richness.
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced: Garlic brings a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 1 tsp tomato paste: This adds a concentrated tomato flavor and deepens the dish’s richness.
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional): A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth and balance to the tomato base.
- 1 can (400g) fire-roasted tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes provide a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
- 2 cans (400g each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Cannellini beans are the star of the dish, adding creaminess and protein. You can substitute them with butter beans or haricot beans for variation.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Spinach adds color, nutrients, and a fresh contrast to the creamy beans and melted cheese.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s depth.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Oregano is a classic herb used in Mediterranean cooking, adding earthy, aromatic notes.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Basil brings a fresh, herby flavor to balance the richness of the cheese and beans.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 125g fresh mozzarella, sliced: The mozzarella provides a creamy, melty topping that’s essential for this bake.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Fresh basil adds a burst of color and fresh flavor to finish off the dish.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional): For an added pop of color and flavor, you can add halved cherry tomatoes as a garnish.
Step-by-Step Directions for Preparation
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). This high temperature is key to achieving that golden, bubbly cheese topping that makes the dish irresistible.
2. Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic
In a cast iron skillet or another oven-safe pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Next, stir in the tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful base for the dish. Let it cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom and meld together.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Simmer
Add the fire-roasted tomatoes to the skillet and bring everything to a simmer. Stir occasionally to combine, and let the mixture cook for about 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
5. Add Beans and Spinach
Once the tomato mixture is simmering, stir in the cannellini beans and spinach. Continue stirring until the spinach has wilted, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Add Cheese
Top the mixture with the sliced mozzarella and, if you’d like extra sharpness, add some grated cheddar on top of the mozzarella.
7. Bake the Dish
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is slightly crispy on the edges, and everything is bubbling away in the skillet.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. If desired, add some cherry tomatoes on top for extra color and freshness. Serve hot with a side of crusty garlic bread or sourdough for dipping.
Variations of the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake
While the original recipe is already delicious, you can always add your own personal twist. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add Meat: If you’re not strictly vegetarian, consider adding some cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage to the dish for extra protein and flavor.
- Different Beans: Try substituting the cannellini beans with butter beans or haricot beans. These beans will give the dish a different texture while maintaining the creamy base.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking or mix them in with the seasonings.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter dish. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake ahead of time. Prepare it through step 6, then cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and cook as directed.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Once it has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven until hot and bubbly.
3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese in place of mozzarella. Fontina, goat cheese, or gruyere are all excellent choices for this dish.
4. What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or even a light green salad on the side. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa or brown rice.
Conclusion
The Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. The creamy white beans, smoky tomatoes, and melted cheese create a delicious harmony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or sharing it with friends, this dish will surely become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with bold, savory flavors. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the satisfying process of making this cheesy, hearty, and utterly delicious meal.
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Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake: A Hearty Vegetarian Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a comforting, vegetarian dish that blends the earthy goodness of cannellini beans with the tangy flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes and the richness of melted cheese. It’s an oven-baked masterpiece that creates the perfect balance of textures—from the creamy beans to the bubbly, golden cheese on top.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
- 1 can (400g) fire-roasted tomatoes (or plum tomatoes, crushed)
- 2 cans (400g each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Substitute: butter beans or haricot beans
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 125g fresh mozzarella, sliced Optional: add grated cheddar for extra sharpness
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for extra pop)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in white beans and spinach. Let spinach wilt (2–3 minutes).
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Top with mozzarella slices and optional cheddar.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with crusty garlic bread or sourdough.
Notes
This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a hearty, wholesome meal. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a handful of fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/4 of the bake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Cheesy Bean Tomato Bake, White Bean Tomato Bake, Vegetarian Bean Bake, Cheesy Bean Dish
