White Bean Casserole

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White Bean Casserole: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

If you’re looking for a warm, cozy, and deeply satisfying meal, this White Bean Casserole is the perfect choice. This dish is packed with creamy white beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh spinach, crispy breadcrumbs, and a luscious sauce, making it rich in flavor and texture. It’s a one-pan wonder that can be served as a main dish or a side, making it a must-have recipe for any home cook.

With its simple ingredients and bold, rustic flavors, this Tuscan-inspired casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and garlicky goodness. Serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or on its own for a comforting and nourishing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Warm & Comforting – The combination of creamy beans, roasted tomatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs is pure comfort.
✔ Packed with Flavor – Fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese add incredible depth to every bite.
✔ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, maximum flavor.
✔ Vegetarian & Protein-Rich – White beans provide plant-based protein and fiber.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Store leftovers and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.

What is White Bean Casserole?

White Bean Casserole is a baked dish made with creamy white beans, a tomato-based sauce, and crispy golden breadcrumbs on top. It has Italian-inspired flavors, similar to a Tuscan bean stew, but baked into a rich, satisfying casserole.

The beans soak up the garlicky, herby flavors of the sauce, while the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect texture. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a simple side, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients for the Best White Bean Casserole

This dish uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create an irresistible baked casserole.

For the Base:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the White Bean Mixture:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or 1½ cups fresh cherry tomatoes)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1½ cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup vegetable broth

For the Crispy Topping:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

  • Crusty bread or toasted baguette
  • A drizzle of olive oil
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 2: Cook the Beans & Tomatoes

  1. Add white beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
  2. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and stir in chopped spinach, cooking until it wilts.

Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter.
  2. Stir until evenly coated and slightly crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

  1. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  2. Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or on its own.
  3. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and crunchy textures in every bite!

Tips for the Best White Bean Casserole

✔ Use High-Quality Beans – Canned beans work well, but home-cooked beans have the best texture.
✔ Don’t Skip the Crispy Topping – The breadcrumb and Parmesan crust adds an amazing crunch.
✔ Adjust the Seasoning – Taste before baking and adjust salt, pepper, or spice level as needed.
✔ Make It Dairy-Free – Skip Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
✔ Add Extra Protein – Stir in grilled chicken, sausage, or tofu for a heartier dish.

Variations & Customizations

Want to mix things up? Try these delicious variations:

1. Spicy White Bean Casserole

  • Add 1 teaspoon chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.

2. Mediterranean Style

  • Stir in chopped olives, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes.

3. Cheesy White Bean Bake

  • Mix in shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for extra melty goodness.

4. Vegan Version

  • Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and swap butter for olive oil.

5. Protein-Packed Version

  • Add sautéed sausage, shredded chicken, or shrimp.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

What to Serve with White Bean Casserole

This rich, hearty casserole pairs well with:

  • Crusty sourdough bread or focaccia
  • Steamed rice or creamy polenta
  • A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms

For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp, and a glass of white wine! 🍷

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to 2 days in advance and bake when ready.

2. Can I use a different type of beans?

Absolutely! Try cannellini, navy, or great northern beans.

3. How can I make it creamier?

Add ½ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk to the sauce.

4. What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Parmesan, mozzarella, or Gruyère work best for melty, cheesy flavor.

5. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for crunch.

Final Thoughts

This White Bean Casserole is a comforting, rich, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, potluck, or meal prep option. With creamy white beans, juicy tomatoes, fresh spinach, and crispy golden breadcrumbs, it’s satisfying, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make.

So grab your white beans, garlic, and tomatoes, and whip up this irresistible casserole today!

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