Description
This White Bean and Pesto Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole combining brown rice, creamy cannellini beans, fresh cherry tomatoes, and flavorful pesto. Topped with crunchy panko crumbs and Parmesan cheese, it’s a delicious vegetarian one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup long grain brown rice
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- â…“ cup pesto
- 2 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup panko crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Heat Broth: Heat the vegetable broth in a microwave-safe bowl until it reaches boiling point; this will cook the rice evenly once combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In an 8×8 inch baking dish, mix together the brown rice, rinsed cannellini beans, pesto, a pinch of salt, and halved cherry tomatoes until thoroughly combined.
- Add Broth: Pour the hot vegetable broth over the rice and bean mixture, then stir well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through as it absorbs the broth.
- Check and Continue Baking: After baking covered, remove the foil carefully to check the liquid level. If the rice is not fully cooked or the mixture is too wet, continue baking uncovered until the liquid reduces and rice is tender.
- Add Topping and Broil: Sprinkle the panko crumbs and grated Parmesan evenly on top. Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- You can substitute long grain brown rice with white rice, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a vegan version, replace Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.
- If you don’t have pesto, try making a quick version with basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts.
- Be cautious when broiling; stay nearby to prevent the topping from burning.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
