Baked cannellini beans are a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. Cannellini beans are a type of white bean that are commonly used in Italian cuisine. When baked, they become soft and creamy, with a rich flavor that pairs well with a variety of spices and seasonings.
This dish is a great vegetarian option and can be served as a side dish or as a main course. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is great because it's simple to make and packed with flavor. The beans are cooked in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs, which gives them a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. The dish is then topped with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, which adds a crunchy texture and a savory finish.
Another reason to make this recipe is that it's versatile. You can serve it as a vegetarian main course, or as a side dish to accompany roasted meats or fish. It's also a great dish to make ahead of time, as it reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for several days.
Overall, baked cannellini beans are a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a cold winter's night, or a hearty side dish for a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
Cannellini Beans - creamy and tender, perfect for baking; substitute with Great Northern or Navy beans if needed
Olive Oil - adds richness and helps the dish cook evenly; substitute with vegetable or canola oil if desired
Garlic - adds a depth of flavor; substitute with garlic powder or onion if needed
Tomatoes - provide natural sweetness and acidity; substitute with canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
Herbs - fresh rosemary or thyme work well; substitute with dried herbs or an Italian seasoning blend
Tips
- Soak dried beans overnight for faster cooking
- Use a deep baking dish to prevent sauce from spilling
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed
- Add a little water if the sauce becomes too thick during baking
- Top with grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor
How to Serve
This versatile baked cannellini beans dish can be served as a side or a main course. It pairs well with a variety of dishes andcan be enjoyed all year round.
- Serve as a side dish alongside roasted or grilled meats
- Use as a base for a vegetarian main course by adding sautéed vegetables
- Incorporate into a hearty salad by mixing with greens, roasted vegetables, and a vinaigrette
Similar Recipes

Cannellini Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried cannellini beans soaked overnight
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- In a deep baking dish, combine beans, olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Soak dried beans overnight for faster cooking
- Use a deep baking dish to prevent sauce from spilling
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed
- Add a little water if the sauce becomes too thick during baking
- Top with grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor