Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake

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(30-Minute Cozy Skillet Meal)

Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake is your go-to one-skillet wonder for comfort, nutrition, and simplicity—all in under 30 minutes. Made with creamy white beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and topped with gooey melted cheese, this vegetarian bake is packed with bold flavors and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Whether you’re looking for a meatless main dish, a savory side, or a satisfying meal-prep option, this hearty white bean bake checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This White Bean Bake

Ready in 30 minutes – ideal for weeknight dinners
One-skillet recipe = easy cleanup!
Pantry-friendly ingredients
Vegetarian, protein-packed, and family-approved
Customizable with your favorite cheese, heat level, or added veggies

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bake:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 (15 oz) cans white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed

For the Topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened (3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in crushed tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Step 3: Add Beans
Mix in the white beans and simmer for 5 minutes to soak up flavor.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Broil
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh basil and serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop over pasta, rice, or quinoa
Pair with garlic bread or focaccia
Serve alongside a leafy green salad
Add a fried egg on top for extra protein

Variations & Tips

Make it vegan: Use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu.
Spicy twist: Use hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.
Extra veggies: Add chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (before broiling cheese is best).
Reheat: Oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.

Common Mistakes & FAQs for Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake

A Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake is the ultimate cozy, easy, and satisfying meal, often a go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or vegetarian main. To ensure your bake is perfectly bubbling, flavorful, and a hit every time, here are some common pitfalls to avoid and answers to your frequently asked questions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Under-Seasoning: With simple ingredients like beans and tomatoes, seasoning is key! Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs. A bland white bean bake is easily fixed by tasting and adjusting seasonings before baking.
Too Much Liquid: While you want a saucy bake, too much liquid from canned tomatoes or broth can make it watery instead of thick and rich. Drain canned beans thoroughly and be mindful of added broth.
Not Draining Canned Beans Well: This is a major culprit for a watery bake. Always rinse and thoroughly drain canned cannellini or great northern beans before adding them to the mixture. Excess liquid from the can will dilute your flavors.
Uneven Cheese Melt: Spread your cheese evenly over the top of the bake. Clumps of cheese might not melt fully, or could burn in spots, leading to an inconsistent cheesy layer.
Rushing Bake Time: Give the tomato white bean bake enough time in the oven for the flavors to meld, the sauce to thicken slightly, and the cheese to get perfectly melted and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What kind of white beans are best for this bake?

A: Cannellini beans (white kidney beans) or Great Northern beans are ideal for this easy bean casserole. Their creamy texture holds up well to baking and blends beautifully with the tomato sauce.

Q: Can I make this bake spicier?

A: Absolutely! To add a kick to your cheesy bean bake, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or dice up a jalapeño and mix it in with the tomatoes.

Q: Is this recipe naturally gluten-free?

A: Yes, typically! As long as all your individual ingredients (like canned tomatoes, beans, and cheese) are naturally gluten-free, this vegetarian bean bake is a fantastic naturally gluten-free option. Always check labels if you have severe sensitivities.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this bake?

A: Yes, this bake is very versatile! Sautéed spinach (ensure it’s well-drained), diced bell peppers, or even roasted zucchini can be lovely additions. Add them with the beans and tomatoes.

Q: How do I store leftovers, and do they reheat well?

A: Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake leftovers store very well! Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through and bubbly.

What’s your favorite way to add extra zest to a tomato-based dish?.

Pin & Print This Cheesy White Bean Bake Recipe

A comforting 30-minute dinner featuring creamy white beans, fire-roasted tomato sauce, and a golden cheese topping. It’s cozy, easy, and perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekends.