Description
This delicious vegetarian pizza casserole combines hearty white beans, tender rice, and a medley of sautéed vegetables with marinara sauce and melted cheeses for a comforting, easy-to-make main course. Perfect for a meatless meal that satisfies pizza cravings with a wholesome twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses and Garnishes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking from the casserole.
- Cook the Rice: Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the uncooked white rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and all the broth is absorbed.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. Then add the diced bell pepper and zucchini and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite.
- Combine Ingredients: To the skillet, add the cooked rice, rinsed white beans, marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy warm as a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Notes
- For added protein, consider stirring cooked lentils or chickpeas into the casserole mixture before baking.
- Substitute with gluten-free rice or pasta to make this casserole gluten-free.
- This casserole reheats very well, making it perfect for meal prep and enjoying leftovers.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use fresh herbs if available for an even brighter flavor profile.
