Description
This Delicious Vegetarian Pizza Casserole with White Beans and Rice is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful one-dish meal inspired by classic pizza flavors. Combining cooked white rice, cannellini beans, vibrant bell peppers, mushrooms, and a blend of Italian herbs, this casserole is topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for a comforting vegetarian main course, it’s easy to prepare and customizable with additional pizza toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, drained and rinsed white beans, marinara or pizza sauce, diced bell peppers, diced onion, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the prepared mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, ensuring a smooth and level surface for even cooking.
- Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese evenly over the rice and bean mixture. If desired, distribute the sliced black olives on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set and makes it easier to portion.
Notes
- You can customize this casserole with other pizza-style toppings such as spinach, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to suit your preferences.
- For a heartier texture and additional fiber, substitute brown rice for white rice.
- Make sure to drain and rinse the canned beans to reduce sodium content and improve texture.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian American
