Pin it
Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake is my go—to solution when I want comforting flavors with zero fuss and a crowd—friendly skillet meal on the table fast. The mix of creamy cannellini beans, sweet—tart tomatoes, hearty spinach, and bubbling cheese always reminds me of lazy weekends at home when we needed a filling dinner after a long walk.
I whipped this up the first time when my fridge was nearly bare apart from a lonely bag of spinach and some white beans. Now my cheese—loving family begs for me to make extra just so they can have leftovers the next day.
Ingredients
- Olive oil extra virgin: brings out the garlic flavor and prevents sticking Always choose cold pressed for the purest taste
- Large garlic cloves: sliced thin infuse the oil with rich mellow flavor Go for a heavy bulb that feels firm not shriveled
- San Marzano peeled tomatoes: bring sweetness and depth to the sauce The higher quality ones make all the difference here
- Fresh baby spinach: adds color and a tender bite Use bags with vibrant deep green leaves not wilted ones
- Cannellini white beans: for creaminess and protein Look for cans with no added salt and rinse well for the cleanest flavor
- Italian seasoning: delivers layers of classic herby notes A good quality blend should smell fragrant with both oregano and basil prominent
- Crushed red pepper flakes: give a little subtle heat Sprinkle to taste but do not skip for best balance
- Kosher salt and black pepper: round out all the other flavors Choose coarse salt if possible for best burst
- Shredded mozzarella: gives this dish its cheesy pull Make sure it is whole milk mozzarella for that melty goodness
Step by Step Instructions
- Heat the Skillet
- Start by preheating your oven to 475 degrees Meanwhile place a 10 inch ovenproof skillet over medium—high heat and add the olive oil If you hear a light sizzle when the garlic hits you are at the right temp
- Fry the Garlic
- Toss in the thinly sliced garlic and fry until fragrant and just golden about one minute Watch carefully as garlic can burn fast A golden edge means you are set
- Mash the Tomatoes
- Add the San Marzano peeled tomatoes directly to the skillet Mind the splatter Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon crush them into chunky pieces to quickly release their juices Allow to simmer for about a minute Keep an eye out and lower the heat if the garlic looks dark
- Add the Greens and Beans
- Pile in the fresh spinach and the rinsed beans Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper Add a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper Stir well so everything is evenly coated in that tasty tomato garlic oil The spinach should start to wilt but does not need to be cooked through
- Top and Bake
- Evenly scatter the shredded mozzarella over everything Bake the skillet in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown in spots If you crave a crispier finish switch the oven to broil and cook for up to two minutes more Park yourself by the oven window it goes fast
- Serve
- Scoop the cheesy bean bake straight from the skillet and enjoy with tortilla chips or good crusty bread This dish is meant to be enjoyed bubbling hot fresh from the oven so never wait too long before sharing
Pin it
The way mozzarella browns over the beans is one of my favorite parts of the dish We love swiping up the gooey cheese with crunchy chips and I will never forget when my kids insisted this was better than pizza for dinner
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers cool completely before covering and refrigerating the skillet Leftover portions stay good for up to three days I always reheat in the oven so the cheese remelts and the beans crisp a little at the edges Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have cannellini beans you can swap in butter beans or navy beans easily For tomatoes regular peeled plum tomatoes will do but San Marzano variety gives unmatched flavor For cheese try fresh mozzarella torn into chunks or a sharp provolone for more tang It is easy to use kale or chard instead of spinach though it takes a minute or two longer to soften
Serving Suggestions
This is fantastic with crunchy tortilla chips but you could pile the bake onto baked potatoes or even pasta The tomato bean filling also makes a hearty dip for a casual party or a spread on toasted bread slices At brunch I love to crack a couple eggs onto the skillet right before baking for extra protein
Cultural and Historical Context
Cheesy white bean tomato bake borrows flavors from both Italian and Mediterranean traditions The classic mix of tomatoes herbs beans and cheese stretches back to rustic farmhouse meals in Southern Europe Flavors like these were valued for being nourishing easy to make and friendly for big family tables
Pin it
The key to loving this recipe is tweaking the spice and cheese level exactly to your taste and using what you already have at home For me this is a comfort recipe that never disappoints and it brings everyone together at the table every single time
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which type of beans works best here?
Cannellini white beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor, perfect for absorbing the seasonings and tomato juices.
- → Can fresh tomatoes replace San Marzano?
Yes, ripe, peeled fresh tomatoes may be used. San Marzano varieties offer distinct sweetness but any flavorful tomato works well.
- → How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Keep the heat moderate and stir frequently. Once fragrant and lightly golden, add tomatoes to lower the temperature quickly.
- → What cheese works instead of mozzarella?
Fontina or provolone can be substituted for mozzarella to offer different melting qualities and flavor nuances.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
It's best enjoyed freshly baked for the optimal cheese texture. If preparing ahead, reheat briefly to restore the meltiness.