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If you’re searching for a meal that strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and wholesome ingredients, skillet tomato cheesy beans might just become your new go-to. This easy bean dish from Tieghan Gerard’s latest cookbook, Half Baked Harvest: Quick and Cozy, will make dinner or lunch feel like a warm hug. It combines the flavors of a creamy tomato soup with cheesy white beans and herby basil pesto with a touch of garlic. And the best part? It’s a one-pan recipe that comes together in less than 20 minutes, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s explore why this dish is a standout and why beans deserve a bigger role in your weekly menu.
Video: Let’s Make Skillet Tomato Cheesy Beans in 20 Min
Beans: The Unsung Hero of a Healthy Diet
Beans are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a range of health benefits that make them a fantastic addition to any meal. Packed with plant-based protein, they are an excellent option for vegetarians and omnivores alike. A single cup of white beans, like butter, cannellini, or navy, contains around 15 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber—enough to keep you feeling full and satisfied long after your meal.
In addition to protein and fiber, beans are rich in essential nutrients like folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients support heart health, aid in muscle function, and promote overall well-being. The soluble fiber found in beans is particularly beneficial for lowering cholesterol levels and stabilizing blood sugar, making them an excellent choice for those managing diabetes or looking to improve their cardiovascular health.
And don’t overlook the budget-friendly nature of beans. Whether you’re using canned or dried, beans are an economical ingredient that stretches your dollar while delivering maximum flavor and nutrition.
Why Skillet Tomato Cheesy Beans Shine
Skillet tomato cheesy beans elevate humble pantry staples into a dish worthy of a dinner party. Here’s what makes this recipe so irresistible:
Flavor Explosion: This dish combines creamy tomato soup vibes with cheesy white beans, herby basil pesto, and a touch of garlic. The balance of acidity from the tomato paste, richness from the heavy cream, and the gooey goodness of cheddar and mozzarella cheese creates a harmonious bite every time.
Texture Perfection: Full of protein, the beans cook up soft and creamy, making them perfect for scooping up with a crusty piece of garlic bread or buttered toast. It’s comfort food at its finest, without the heaviness of traditional casseroles.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of steps, this dish comes together in less than 20 minutes. All you need is one pan, which means you can enjoy a gourmet meal without a pile of dishes staring you down afterward.
The Ingredients That Make It Special
Here’s a sneak peek at the key ingredients that make skillet tomato cheesy beans a standout:
White Beans: Butter, cannellini, or navy beans bring creaminess and protein to the dish. Olive Oil, Shallot, and Garlic: This trio forms the aromatic base, infusing every bite with savory depth.
Tomato Paste and Heavy Cream: These create the luscious tomato soup-inspired sauce that coats the beans.
Basil Pesto: Whether jarred or homemade, this adds a herby brightness that cuts through the richness.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: The combination of these cheeses ensures melty, gooey perfection.
Crusty Bread: For serving, because no one wants to leave any of that creamy, cheesy sauce behind.
One-Pan Magic for Busy Days
Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice a delicious, homemade meal. Skillet tomato cheesy beans are proof that simplicity can still deliver on flavor. The recipe is perfect for weeknights, cozy weekends, or even casual entertaining. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of wine, and you have a meal that feels elevated without the hassle. So, whether you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet or simply want a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, give skillet tomato cheesy beans a try. This recipe is more than just a quick fix—it’s a celebration of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary.
Discover the comfort of skillet tomato cheesy beans: a quick, one-pan dish combining creamy tomato flavors, cheesy white beans, and herby pesto. Ready in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1/4cup olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced
1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2cup heavy cream
1/2cup basil pesto, jarred or homemade
3 15–ounce cans white beans such as butter, cannellini or navy, drained
1cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
1/2cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Crusty or toasted bread, for serving
Instructions
In large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. When oil is shimmering, add shallot and cook until it begins to soften, 1 minute.
Add garlic and oregano and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes more.
Reduce heat to low, add tomato paste and red pepper flakes, and cook, stirring, until the paste darkens to a rich brick red, about 4 minutes.
Stir in 1 cup water, then cream and pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
Add beans and 1/2 cup cheddar, tossing until the cheese melts.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the beans are well coated and the flavors are melded, about 10 minutes.
Stir in basil and cook just to wilt, 1 minute more. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed.
Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and the mozzarella. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbling, about 2 minutes.
Divide among bowls and top with more basil. Serve with toasted bread (or garlic bread) alongside for scooping and dipping.
