Description
This White Bean and Pesto Bake is a hearty, comforting one-dish meal combining nutty brown rice, creamy cannellini beans, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and flavorful pesto. Topped with a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust, this casserole is perfect for an easy, satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup long grain brown rice
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- ⅓ cup pesto
- 2 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
Topping
- ½ cup panko crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Heat Vegetable Broth: Warm the vegetable broth in a microwave-safe bowl until it reaches a boil to aid in cooking the rice evenly within the bake.
- Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In an 8×8 inch baking dish, mix together the brown rice, rinsed and drained cannellini beans, pesto, salt to taste, and halved cherry tomatoes ensuring all components are evenly distributed.
- Add Broth and Stir: Pour the hot vegetable broth over the rice and bean mixture, then stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly before cooking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the broth and cook through.
- Check Liquid and Continue Baking: After the initial baking time, remove the foil to check if the rice has absorbed the liquid. If any broth remains, bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
- Add Topping and Broil: Sprinkle the panko crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place under the broiler until the topping is golden brown and crispy, which usually takes 2-4 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- You can substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans.
- For a gluten-free option, replace panko crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- If pesto is not homemade, store-bought varieties work well—just opt for one you enjoy for the best flavor.
- Keep an eye on the broiler step to prevent the topping from burning quickly.
- This dish is great for meal prep as leftovers reheat well.
