This Easy White Bean and Pesto Bake is a warm, comforting dish full of flavor! The creamy white beans mixed with tasty pesto create a meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love how quick it is to prepare—just mix everything, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini beans are perfect for their creamy texture. However, navy beans or great northern beans can also work well. If you’re looking to mix it up, chickpeas can add a different flair.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought pesto is super convenient! If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan pesto or make your own with basil, nuts, and olive oil. Homemade pestos can be customized with different herbs too.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color, but you can use halved regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a punchier flavor. Canned diced tomatoes are also a great option if these aren’t available.
Cheese: Parmesan gives a nice sharpness, but feel free to swap it for Pecorino Romano if you like a stronger flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste as a substitute.
Fresh Basil: Basil is lovely as a garnish for freshness. Dried basil could also work in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor. You can also use parsley or arugula for a different twist.
What’s the Best Way to Mix Everything Together?
Combining your ingredients properly is key! Start by mixing your white beans and pesto in a large bowl. To avoid mashing the beans too much, use a gentle folding motion rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps the beans intact for a nice texture.
- Ensure your garlic is minced well to spread its flavor throughout the dish; you can even sauté it in olive oil first for a milder taste.
- Taste your mixture before transferring to the baking dish. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking!
- Spread the mixture evenly to ensure even baking, so every bite is delicious.
Easy White Bean and Pesto Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup prepared pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal. So, in roughly 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm and flavorful bake ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that you get a bubbly, golden top when it’s all done baking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed white beans, prepared pesto sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon to stir gently until everything is well mixed. Be careful not to mash the beans too much; you want to keep them nice and whole for texture!
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Transfer the bean and pesto mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking. This will form the base of your bake!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Now, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the top of the bean mixture. These will add a pop of color and sweetness to your dish.
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the tomatoes. This will create a deliciously melty and slightly crispy cheese layer once baked.
6. Bake!
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt, bubble, and turn lightly golden.
7. Cool and Garnish:
When the bake is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps to set up the dish. Then, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbal finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the White Bean and Pesto Bake warm, either on its own or with some crusty bread or a refreshing green salad!
Enjoy this simple, flavorful dish with family and friends! It’s sure to become a new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Absolutely! Canned beans are perfect for this recipe as they save time and effort. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce sodium content and enhance flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to chop them small and sauté if needed beforehand to ensure they cook evenly in the bake.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze this bake before or after cooking! If freezing before cooking, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before sealing in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. If freezing leftovers, let the dish cool completely before freezing, and consume within 2 months for the best quality.
