Description
A comforting and flavorful White Bean and Pesto Bake featuring wholesome brown rice, creamy cannellini beans, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a rich pesto sauce. This baked dish is topped with crunchy panko crumbs and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying golden finish.
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 (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Heat Broth: Warm the vegetable broth in a microwave-safe bowl until it reaches a boil; this ensures it will cook the rice properly during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In an 8×8-inch baking dish, mix together the brown rice, rinsed cannellini beans, pesto, salt, and halved cherry tomatoes evenly.
- Add Broth: Pour the hot vegetable broth over the rice and bean mixture and stir well to evenly distribute the liquid and flavors.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the broth and become tender.
- Check Liquid Levels: Remove the foil to check if the liquid has been absorbed. If there is still excess liquid, continue baking uncovered until fully absorbed and rice is tender.
- Add Toppings and Broil: Sprinkle the top evenly with panko crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then switch the oven to broil. Broil for a few minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Notes
- You can substitute cannellini beans with great northern or navy beans if preferred.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider using homemade pesto or store-bought basil pesto.
- If you don’t have panko crumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though panko adds extra crunch.
- Covering the dish with foil during baking helps cook the rice evenly while retaining moisture.
- Broiling the topping adds a delicious crispy texture—do not leave unattended.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking cold.
