Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake

Name: Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 small shallots, or 1 large shallot, thinly sliced; 1 (6 ounce) can high-quality tomato paste (like Cento); 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or 1 1/4 teaspoon table salt); 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (or to taste); 3 (15-ounce) cans cannellini white beans; 3/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped fine (or 1 teaspoon dried); 2 cups smoked gouda or mozzarella cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded; Crusty French bread, for serving

By:

Thomas

Published:

February 14, 2026

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This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is one of those recipes that will make your kitchen smell amazing while being super simple to prepare. Picture this: a bubbling dish that combines creamy white beans, rich tomato paste, and melted cheese. It’s comforting and has a homey feel that will wrap you up like a warm blanket. You don’t need to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen for a meal that makes everyone happy. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh flavors, you can whip up this delightful dish in around 20 minutes! Whether you’re feeding the family or hoping to impress your friends, this Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake hits all the right notes.

So, let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this delicious cooking adventure. Your taste buds are in for a treat, and I promise this recipe will become a favorite you want to make again and again!

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is a masterpiece of simplicity. It’s crafted to get to your table in just 20 minutes. By combining pantry staples with fresh flavors, it delivers a comforting dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. The blend of creamy white beans with the rich tomato paste creates a multilayered flavor profile that’s elevated by melted cheese and fresh herbs. This combination results in a dish you’ll crave repeatedly.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake

Imagine a warm, bubbling dish that’s loaded with cheesy goodness while packing a punch of protein and fiber! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights. This recipe requires minimal prep but promises maximum flavor—ideal for feeding your family or impressing guests. Plus, who doesn’t love a quick, affordable meal using mostly pantry ingredients?

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 small shallots, or 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
1 (6 ounce) can high-quality tomato paste (like Cento)
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons kosher salt (or 1 1/4 teaspoon table salt)
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (or to taste)
3 (15-ounce) cans cannellini white beans
3/4 cup water
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped fine (or 1 teaspoon dried)
2 cups smoked gouda or mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
Crusty French bread, for serving

Preparing the Vegetables

Slice and Sauté

First, thinly slice the garlic and shallots. Preheat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat for about a minute, then add the olive oil. Once it starts to shimmer, toss in the shallots and sauté for three minutes. After that, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until everything is fragrant.

Enhance the Base

Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning

Next, stir in the can of tomato paste, spreading it evenly throughout the skillet. Season your mixture with dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Allow it to cook for two minutes. This step is important as it deepens the flavors, making your dish even tastier.

Integrate the Beans

Combine Beans and Water

Now it’s time to open the three cans of white beans, but don’t forget to partially drain them first. Add the beans to your skillet, along with 3/4 cup of water. Stir everything together and increase the heat to medium-high, letting the mixture come to a simmer.

Simmer Away

Cook the Mixture

Once simmering, lower your heat to medium-low and let it cook for about ten minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally during this time, as it helps to meld all those wonderful flavors beautifully.

Final Touches

Incorporate Fresh Herbs

When ten minutes are up, remove your skillet from heat and stir in the fresh rosemary. Now’s a good time to taste your mixture and adjust any seasoning to your preference.

Cheese It Up

Top off the mixture with the grated smoked gouda and shredded Parmesan.

Broil to Perfection

Broil the Dish

Now, let’s finish it off! Turn your broiler on high and place the oven rack just a few inches from the heat source. Broil the dish for about 2-4 minutes, checking every 30 seconds. You want to see that cheese melt beautifully and turn a bit golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

When everything is melted to perfection, serve your Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake hot. Pair it with some crusty French bread, which is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Tips for Success

Quality matters in ingredients, so choose a high-quality tomato paste for the best flavor.
Adjust seasoning to suit your personal preference; don’t hesitate to experiment!
Keep an eye on the broiling closely to prevent burning.

Variations

Feel free to swap out smoked gouda for sharp cheddar or feta for a different flavor profile. You could also add in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutrient boost. If you like it spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños or a touch more crushed red pepper.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for a few days. For longer storage, freeze them in a ziplock bag for 2-3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Pairing Ideas

This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a glass of red wine, enhancing both the flavors of the dish and your dining experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure you soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they’re tender.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can use vegan cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version of the dish.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Simply add more crushed red pepper or include additional spicy ingredients to taste.

Can I prep this dish in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare it up to the broiling step and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to broil and serve.

Is this a good dish for meal prep?

Yes, this dish holds up well. You can easily portion it out for reheating throughout the week.

This Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, prepared to satisfy your taste buds and fill your kitchen with inviting aromas. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s easy to make and even easier to love!