For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. Mashed potato or polenta can substitute the bread. Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
A hearty and comforting casserole, perfect for chilly evenings. Earthy beans mingle with sweet vegetables under a blanket of crisp, golden-brown bread and savory Parmesan.
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and carrot; cook and stir until onion is tender and transparent. Stir in the sugar, red pepper and mushrooms and continue to cook until onion is browned.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to blend. Cook for 1 minute then mix in the water and tomato paste. Season with basil and thyme. Mix in the beans and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a greased casserole dish.
Pour the remaining oil into a shallow dish. Dip one side of each slice of bread in the oil, then arrange on top of the casserole with the oiled side up. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven, until the bread and cheese are toasted.
For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. Mashed potato or polenta can substitute the bread. Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Burnice Kessler
May 30, 2025Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gave it a nice kick.
Janiya Mayer
May 3, 2025This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
Elizabeth Luettgen
Apr 3, 2025I didn't have French bread, so I used toasted baguette slices, and it worked great.
Brielle Bins
Feb 6, 2025Next time, I'll try adding some chopped sausage for extra flavor.
Aylin Stracke
Dec 15, 2024Freezes well! I made a double batch and froze half for later.
Savanna Lind
Dec 15, 2024I substituted cannellini beans for kidney beans, and it was delicious!
Maye Cummings
Nov 27, 2024So easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Merle Douglas
Oct 26, 2024My kids loved this, and they usually don't eat beans!