Try this rustic Italian white bean casserole recipe
Italian white bean casserole, rooted in Italy's simple, flavorful cuisine, is both hearty and comforting. This vegetarian, eggless recipe, made with basic ingredients, is ideal for a nutritious meal. It embodies the essence of Italian home cooking and showcases the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine. With a rich history and cultural relevance, this casserole invites us to start cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For this casserole, gather two 15-ounce cans of white beans (cannellini or navy, drained), one large chopped onion, three minced garlic cloves, a 14-ounce can of undrained diced tomatoes, one teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, half a teaspoon of salt, a quarter teaspoon of black pepper, two tablespoons olive oil, and one cup breadcrumbs for the topping.
Preparing the base
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil followed by the chopped onion. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. This should take about five minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This base will add depth to your casserole.
Adding flavor and beans
To your skillet with onions and garlic, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat so that flavors meld together beautifully. Next, fold in the drained white beans gently into this tomato mixture until they are well coated with all the flavors.
Assembling the casserole
Pour the bean mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust. These breadcrumbs will absorb moisture from below and turn golden brown on top, adding texture to our rustic casserole. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of moisture and crunchiness, enhancing the overall flavor and appeal of the dish.
Baking to perfection
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until you see a beautiful golden crust form on top. Once done, let it sit for five minutes before serving. This allows everything to set nicely together, making it easier to serve and ensuring the perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.
