Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that bursts with creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors, your search ends here with this irresistibly delicious Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake. This dish perfectly balances hearty white beans, vibrant greens, and a trio of luscious cheeses all baked to bubbly golden perfection in one skillet. It’s a satisfying, nutritious, and family-friendly meal that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, the Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake is a true winner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each adding a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color. From tender leafy greens to vibrant tomatoes and an exciting mix of cheeses, every component plays its part in creating a sensational skillet bake experience.
- 30 ounces Cannellini or White Northern beans: Creamy beans that provide a hearty base and great texture.
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and a burst of acidity to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped: Delivers a fresh, tender green boost that wilts perfectly.
- 1/2 cup kale, roughly chopped: Adds a slightly chewy texture and a deep earthy flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aroma and a savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt: Enhances all the natural flavors present.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Adds a tangy lift and depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, roughly minced: Provides an aromatic, slightly peppery note.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, roughly minced: Brings a sweet, herbal freshness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melts into gooey, luscious cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan: Offers nutty, salty flavor and a crisp finish.
- 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese: Adds a tangy, bold blue cheese kick.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing and richness.
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes or 2 to 3 bunches small tomatoes on the vine: For a pop of juicy sweetness on top before baking.
How to Make Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Sauté Greens
Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F to get it nice and hot for that perfect golden bake. In a large, oven-safe skillet, warm the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the kale and baby spinach and sauté just until the spinach starts to wilt, about 2 minutes. This step softens the greens and releases their lovely flavors, creating a fresh foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Tomatoes
Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—this only takes about 30 seconds to one minute, so watch closely! If you want even more flavor layers, this is the time to add a bit of tomato paste and cook it until it deepens to an intense red color for around one minute. Then pour in the diced tomatoes, scraping up any caramelized bits from the pan bottom to infuse even more taste.
Step 3: Add Beans, Seasonings, and Simmer
Now it’s time for the star ingredient: white beans. Add them to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and white wine vinegar. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering thickens the mixture slightly and marries those tangy, savory, and herby flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Mix in Fresh Herbs and Cheeses
Remove the pan from heat, and stir in fresh sage, basil, one cup of shredded mozzarella, and a quarter cup of parmesan cheese. This combination adds aromatic freshness and creaminess before the big bake. You’ll sprinkle the rest of your cheeses evenly over the top, ensuring every bite will have lovely melty cheese pockets. If you love a burst of color and sweetness, scatter cherry or small vine tomatoes on top now.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbling, Golden Perfection
Place your skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the edges bubble deliciously and the cheese is a gorgeous golden-brown shade. For an extra golden crust, feel free to broil for 2 to 3 minutes—but keep a close eye to avoid burning. Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with any leftover herbs and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish.
How to Serve Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil, sage, or even a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a bright, fragrant note that contrasts the rich cheese beautifully. A dash of flaky sea salt or a twist of black pepper on top right before serving also makes a simple yet effective finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake shines alongside crunchy baguette slices or pita chips, perfect for scooping up every last cheesy bite. For a refreshing balance, serve it with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed green beans seasoned with lemon zest and olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress, serve the skillet bake in individual mini skillets or small cast iron pans for personalized portions. Alternatively, scoop it over a bed of quinoa or creamy polenta to turn it into a stunning main course. You can even turn leftovers into a warm sandwich filling paired with robust mustard or pickled vegetables for a tasty lunch idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it perfect for next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, too. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 2 months frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. If possible, add a handful of shredded mozzarella on top before reheating and broil for a few minutes to revive that golden cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I substitute other beans for the white beans?
Absolutely! While Cannellini or White Northern beans work best for their creamy texture, navy beans or great northern beans can be great alternatives. Just choose beans that hold their shape well to keep the skillet bake nice and hearty.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap out the cheeses for your favorite plant-based alternatives to keep that gooey texture. Nutritional yeast and vegan mozzarella-style shreds work wonderfully here without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to prepare the skillet bake without an oven?
If you don’t have an oven, you can finish the dish on the stovetop by cooking covered over low heat after mixing in the cheese. It won’t get as browned and bubbly, but it will still be deliciously cheesy and comforting.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and focuses on savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking if you want a little heat, but it’s just as wonderful without.
Can I add meat or other proteins?
Definitely! Adding cooked Italian sausage, crispy bacon, or shredded rotisserie chicken can turn this skillet bake into a heartier dish. Just fold the protein in before baking to keep everything warm and melded together.
Final Thoughts
Once you try making this Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again. Its cozy, cheesy goodness combined with wholesome beans and fresh greens makes it a comforting dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’re in for a deliciously satisfying experience that will make any meal feel special.
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Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy White Bean Skillet Bake is a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender white beans, vibrant greens, and a blend of three cheeses baked to golden perfection. Enhanced with fresh herbs and a tangy tomato base, it makes a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 ounces Cannellini or White Northern beans, drained
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup kale, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, roughly minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, roughly minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan
- 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Optional Topping
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes or 2 to 3 bunches small tomatoes on the vine
Instructions
- Preheat and Heat Oil: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the greens.
- Cook Greens: Add the roughly chopped kale and baby spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach starts to wilt, about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to one minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add Tomato Paste: Although tomato paste isn’t listed in the ingredients, based on the instructions, add 1 tablespoon tomato paste now and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to build depth of flavor.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the 14 ounces of diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Simmer with Beans and Seasonings: Add the drained beans, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens somewhat.
- Add Herbs and Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh sage, 1 tablespoon fresh basil, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup parmesan, plus the 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese on top. If using, add the cherry tomatoes or small tomatoes on the vine on top.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sides are bubbling and the cheese is golden and melted.
- Optional Broil: For an extra golden, cheesy top, broil the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with any remaining fresh herbs and a sprinkle of ground black pepper. Serve immediately with sliced baguette, pita chips, or raw vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon dried herbs if fresh is unavailable.
- Add tomato paste in step 4 as it is essential for depth of flavor despite being missing in the original ingredients list.
- For a vegan version, substitute cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on the saltiness of the cheeses used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: white bean bake, cheesy bean skillet, vegetarian skillet bake, creamy white beans, Italian bean dish, healthy vegetarian recipe, baked mozzarella dish
