Introduction
Transform humble pantry staples into a cheesy, comforting, and utterly delicious vegetarian pizza casserole! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fun family project. We’re taking all the best parts of pizza and turning them into a hearty, satisfying casserole that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Get ready for a taste explosion!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. The creamy white beans provide a rich base, the fluffy rice adds a comforting element, and the pizza sauce and cheese bring that irresistible pizza flavor we all crave. It’s a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing deliciousness – perfect for busy families! It’s also incredibly adaptable, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand.
Key Ingredients
- 🍅 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 🍚 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
- 🥫 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 🌶️ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🍕 1 jar (24 ounces) pizza sauce
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), onion, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3️⃣ Pour half of the pizza sauce into the prepared baking dish.
4️⃣ Spread the rice and bean mixture evenly over the pizza sauce.
5️⃣ Top with the remaining pizza sauce and then sprinkle generously with the mozzarella cheese.
6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
7️⃣ Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the casserole.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- If you don’t have dried oregano and basil, you can use about 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning instead.
- Don’t overcook the casserole, or the rice might become dry.
Heat Control
The 375°F (190°C) oven temperature is crucial for melting the cheese evenly and creating a slightly browned, bubbly top without drying out the casserole. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Crunch Factor
While this casserole isn’t particularly crunchy, the slight crispiness on top from the melted cheese provides a nice textural contrast to the soft rice and beans. Adding some toasted bread crumbs on top before baking could add an extra layer of crunch if desired.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-cooked rice to save time!
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality pizza sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.
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.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole makes a wonderful potluck dish! Transport it in a disposable aluminum pan for easy serving, or transfer it to a pretty casserole dish before gifting.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Mediterranean: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
🌟 Veggie-Packed: Include your favorite chopped vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.
🌟 Herby: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before baking.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Casserole: If the casserole is too dry, add a little more pizza sauce or a splash of water before baking.
- Burnt Cheese: If the cheese is browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
FAQ
- Can I use different beans? Yes, kidney beans or black beans would also work well.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- What kind of rice should I use? Long-grain white rice is recommended.
- Is this gluten-free? It is gluten-free, provided you use a gluten-free pizza sauce.
Conclusion
This Vegetarian Pizza Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion! It’s easy, delicious, and adaptable to your tastes. We’d love to see your creations – share your photos and reviews on Ratemyrecipes.com! Enjoy!
Cheesy White Bean Pizza Bake (Family Fun!)
A delicious and easy-to-make pizza bake featuring white beans, cheese, and a variety of toppings that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190u00b0C (375u00b0F).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the white beans with a fork until mostly smooth.
- Stir in pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Spread the bean mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
- Top with chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, and black olives.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings according to your family's preferences.
- For a healthier option, use a whole wheat pizza crust.