Beans Parmesan Recipe

When you're craving something warm, hearty, and satisfying but still nutritious and simple to make Beans Parmesan delivers on every level. With creamy cannellini beans, rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a crisp, golden Parmesan breadcrumb topping, this dish is cozy comfort food that just so happens to be packed with fiber and protein, too.

Ready in under an hour and made with mostly pantry staples, it’s perfect for a meatless main or a standout side dish.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• One 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1/3 cup plus 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

• Two 15.5-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (about 6 ounces)

• Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish

How to Make Beans Parmesan

1. Sauté the aromatics.

Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring, until tender about 3 to 4 minutes.

2. Build the sauce.

Stir in the oregano and red pepper flakes, letting them bloom for about 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

3. Prepare the crunchy topping.

In a bowl, combine panko, 1/3 cup Parmesan, the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a few more grinds of pepper. Mix until evenly coated and set aside.

4. Add the beans and cheese.

Stir the drained beans and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan into the tomato sauce. Let them warm through for about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Top with shredded mozzarella, spreading it evenly across the skillet. Then sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the top.

5. Bake to perfection.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes.

6. Garnish and serve.

Top with freshly sliced basil just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love It

• High in plant-based protein and fiber thanks to cannellini beans

• Easy to customize try adding spinach, roasted vegetables, or swapping in chickpeas

• Perfect for meal prep leftovers reheat beautifully

Serve it with crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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