Baked White Beans Recipe

Introduction

This flavorful white bean bake is a simple, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With creamy beans coated in vibrant basil pesto and a hint of garlic and heat, it makes for a delicious side or light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil if using.
2. Step 2: Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: Add the basil pesto, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes to the beans. Stir well until all beans are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Step 4: Transfer the pesto-coated beans into the prepared baking dish, spreading them into an even layer.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top if using.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the beans are heated through.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans lightly before mixing with pesto.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep this dish dairy-free.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the beans.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Fresh homemade pesto adds vibrant flavor and freshness, enhancing the dish wonderfully.

Can I substitute other types of beans for white beans?

Yes, you can try this recipe with other beans like chickpeas or navy beans, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Baked White Beans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 139 reviews

A simple and flavorful baked white bean dish combining creamy white beans with fragrant basil pesto, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, it makes a perfect warm side or light main dish.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beans and Pesto

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For Baking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly under cold water. Place the beans in a large mixing bowl to ensure even coating with the pesto.
3. Combine Beans and Pesto: Add the basil pesto to the bowl with the beans along with garlic powder and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently until all the beans are evenly coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the pesto-coated beans into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top if using to add a flavorful crust during baking.
5. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the beans are heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and aroma. Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.

Notes

• Use cannellini or great northern beans for best creamy texture.
• Store-bought pesto works well and saves time, but homemade pesto can elevate the dish.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer no heat.
• Optional Parmesan cheese adds a savory crust but can be skipped for a dairy-free variation.
• Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.

Keywords: white bean bake, basil pesto beans, easy baked beans, vegetarian side dish, Italian bean recipe