Name: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Mozzarella
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: crusty bread for serving

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Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Mozzarella is a hearty, rustic dish featuring creamy white beans simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce with herbs, then topped with melted mozzarella. Inspired by the flavors of central Italy, this comforting vegetarian meal is prepared in one skillet for ease and minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is satisfying, flavorful, and highly nutritious. The combination of protein-rich beans and gooey mozzarella creates a comforting yet healthy meal. It’s budget-friendly, packed with plant-based protein, and ideal for busy weeknights. Served with crusty bread, it makes a complete and nourishing dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Canned white beans (cannellini or great northern beans)
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil or parsley
Mozzarella cheese (shredded or sliced)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Crusty bread (for serving)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste, followed by crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Add drained and rinsed white beans. Stir to coat in the sauce and let simmer for another 5–10 minutes.
Sprinkle mozzarella over the top, cover the skillet, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
Use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor.
Include sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for added texture.
Make it spicy by increasing the red pepper flakes.
For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked Italian sausage or pancetta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave individual portions until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens. Freezing is possible, though the cheese texture may change slightly.

FAQs

Can I use dry beans instead of canned?

Yes, cook dry beans ahead of time until tender, then proceed with the recipe.

What type of white beans is best?

Cannellini beans are most traditional, but great northern or navy beans work well too.

Is this dish vegan?

No, but you can make it vegan by omitting cheese or using a dairy-free substitute.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, cooked sausage or pancetta can be added for extra protein and flavor.

Do I have to melt the cheese in the skillet?

For convenience, yes, but you can also transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for a browned cheese top.

What goes well with this dish?

Serve it with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, though cheese texture may change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the cheese from becoming rubbery?

Melt the cheese gently over low heat or under a lid to keep it soft and stretchy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make excellent additions.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Conclusion

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Mozzarella is a nourishing, flavor-packed dish that brings rustic Italian comfort to your table. With its creamy beans, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a one-skillet wonder that satisfies both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Mozzarella

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Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Mozzarella is a rustic and hearty vegetarian dish featuring creamy white beans simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce, finished with melted mozzarella and fresh herbs.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add diced tomatoes, white beans, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and sauce to thicken slightly.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped basil or parsley.
Serve hot, with crusty bread if desired.