Introduction
Transform simple ingredients into a cheesy, comforting vegetarian pizza casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend family project! This recipe takes the best parts of pizza and casserole, creating a hearty, satisfying meal everyone will love. Get ready for happy tummies and minimal cleanup!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly easy, uses pantry staples, and delivers big on flavor. White beans add protein and creaminess, while the pizza sauce and cheese provide that irresistible comfort-food appeal. It’s a one-pan wonder, making clean-up a breeze – more time for family fun!
Key Ingredients
🍕 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
🧀 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
🫘 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
🧀 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
⚪ 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, white beans (mashed slightly with a fork), onion, garlic, oregano, and basil. Mix well to combine.
3️⃣ Stir in the cooked rice and half of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed.
4️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5️⃣ Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
6️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
7️⃣ Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use a good quality pizza sauce for extra flavor!
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms, to the casserole.
Heat Control
Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly without burning. Keep an eye on it during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. If it browns too quickly, loosely tent the top with foil.
Crunch Factor
This casserole offers a delightful combination of creamy textures from the ricotta and beans, balanced by the slight chewiness of the rice and the satisfyingly melty cheese. For an extra crunch, you could sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a faster meal, use pre-cooked rice.
- Roasting the onion and garlic before adding them to the casserole will deepen their flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole is perfect for potlucks or taking to a neighbor! You can transport it in the baking dish covered in foil, or in a pretty casserole carrier. Adding a small tag with the recipe makes a thoughtful gift.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
🌟 Mediterranean: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
🌟 Veggie Delight: Incorporate roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
🌟 Herby: Boost the herbs with fresh oregano, basil, and thyme.
Troubleshooting
- Casserole is too dry: Add a little more ricotta cheese or a splash of milk to the mixture.
- Casserole is burning on top: Loosely cover the casserole with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Cheese isn’t melting: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
FAQ
- Can I use different beans? Yes, kidney beans or chickpeas would also work well.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Let it cool completely before freezing.
- What kind of rice should I use? Any type of cooked rice will work, but long-grain white rice is a good choice.
- How many does this serve? This recipe will serve 6-8 people.
- Can I make it ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later.
Conclusion
This Vegetarian Pizza Casserole with White Beans is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and share your experience with us – we can’t wait to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!
Cheesy White Bean Pizza Rice Casserole (Vegetarian!)
A delicious and hearty casserole that combines creamy white beans, flavorful pizza toppings, and cheesy goodness over a bed of rice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180u00b0C.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, white beans, marinara sauce, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, bell peppers, olives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Tips
- For added flavor, you can sautu00e9 the bell peppers before adding them to the mixture.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite pizza ingredients like mushrooms or spinach.