If I could describe the Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake in one word, it would be "comfort." This dish combines the warmth of a hearty casserole with the zest of fresh tomatoes and the creaminess of cheese, making it a regular on my rotation for side dishes.
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Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake
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Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake
Ingredients
- olive oil
- 2 shallots sliced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 thyme sprig
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 500 g 1 pound canned white beans, drained
- 1 ½ cups tomato passata
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- parmesan
- basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 220C/430F.
- Place a cast iron skillet with a gulp of olive oil over medium heat. Saute shallots for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.olive oil, 2 shallots, 2 garlic cloves
- Mix onions with beans, season with salt, pepper, thyme and chili flakes. Pour passata and mix in sliced tomatoes. Bring sauce to a boil and let tomatoes become soft.1 thyme sprig, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, 500 g 1 pound canned white beans, drained, 1 ½ cups tomato passata, 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan on top of the beans and bake for 10 minutes. Top with basil before serving.1 cup mozzarella, parmesan, basil
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- olive oil
- 2 shallots, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thyme sprig
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 500 g (1 pound) canned white beans, drained
- 1 ½ cups tomato passata
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- parmesan and basil for serving
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 220C/430F.
Place a cast iron skillet with a gulp of olive oil over medium heat. Saute shallots for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Mix onions with beans, season with salt, pepper, thyme and chili flakes. Pour passata and mix in sliced tomatoes. Bring sauce to a boil and let tomatoes become soft.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan on top of the beans and bake for 10 minutes. Top with basil before serving.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Versatile Side Dishes
One of the best things about the Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake is its versatility. Pair it with a simple side salad to keep things light, or serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, consider mashed potatoes or rice.
The mild flavors of this casserole also complement grilled vegetables beautifully. Think roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. These veggies add a nice texture contrast and additional nutrients to your meal.
For those who love a bit of spice, a side of jalapeno cornbread can add a delightful kick. Its crumbly texture pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the bake.
Wine Pairings
No dinner is complete without the perfect beverage. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir works wonders with this dish. These wines help balance the rich, cheesy flavors while enhancing the freshness of the tomatoes.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime. It’s refreshing and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
For a more exotic touch, try pairing it with a Moroccan mint tea. Its subtle sweetness and aromatic minty flavor offer a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.
Dessert Ideas
Round off your meal with a light, fruity dessert. A berry parfait or a slice of lemon tart can provide the perfect ending without overwhelming your taste buds. The acidity in these desserts also helps cut through the richness of the cheese.
Alternatively, a bowl of fresh fruit salad can do the trick. Opt for fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and oranges to keep it colorful and refreshing.
If you're feeling indulgent, a chocolate lava cake can be a decadent finish. Its gooey center and rich flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Picking the Right Beans
When it comes to this Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake, the type of beans you use can make a significant difference. Cannellini beans are a great choice because they are creamy and absorb flavors well. However, you can also use navy beans or great northern beans if you prefer a slightly different texture.
Make sure to drain and rinse the canned beans thoroughly. This step helps remove excess sodium and gives you a cleaner flavor profile. If you have the time, cooking dried beans from scratch can elevate the dish even further.
Using fresh ingredients can also make a world of difference. Fresh thyme sprigs and high-quality passata will bring out the best in this recipe.
Optimizing Cheese Melting
For the ultimate cheesy experience, mix mozzarella with a bit of parmesan. The mozzarella provides that gooey, stretchy texture we all love, while the parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick. Make sure your cheese is at room temperature before sprinkling it on top.
To get that golden-brown crust, broil the dish for the last two minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Another trick is to grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Enhancing Flavor
Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. A pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper can elevate the flavors significantly. Consider adding a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce for an extra layer of complexity.
For a more robust flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the skillet. This simple step caramelizes the sugars and intensifies the tomato essence.
Lastly, fresh basil leaves not only add color but also a burst of freshness that ties the whole dish together. Tear the basil with your hands instead of cutting it to release more of its aromatic oils.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake to be vegan. Substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with your favorite plant-based cheeses. Nutritional yeast is another great option for adding a cheesy flavor.
For a creamier texture, consider blending cashews into a smooth paste and mixing it with the tomato sauce. This will give you that rich, cheesy feel without any dairy.
Make sure to check the ingredients in your passata as some brands may contain added sugars or preservatives.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers of this dish store wonderfully. Simply transfer the bake into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 180C/350F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
You can also freeze the Cheesy White Bean and Tomato Bake. Portion it out into individual servings and store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until hot.
For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery.
Can I Add Meat?
Yes, you can add meat to this dish for an extra protein boost. Ground turkey or sausage works well. Simply brown the meat in the skillet before adding the shallots and garlic.
Bacon or pancetta can also add a delightful smoky flavor. Cook them until crispy and sprinkle over the top just before serving.
If you’re a seafood lover, shrimp or scallops can be a luxurious addition. Sear them separately and add to the dish during the last few minutes of baking.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Veggies are what makes the world go 'round for me. Good news for you, if you love vegetables in the way I do, I've got all sorts of fun vegetable casserole ideas right here:
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