Description
This Minestrone Casserole is a hearty and wholesome one-pot meal bursting with fresh vegetables, white beans, and pasta, all baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy, comforting dish that combines the flavors of classic Italian minestrone soup with the convenience of a casserole, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup baby spinach
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Others
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like elbow or ditalini)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Remaining Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in diced zucchini, baby spinach, canned diced tomatoes, white beans, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
- Cook Pasta in Sauce: Add uncooked small pasta to the skillet, stir thoroughly to combine. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the flavorful broth.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the oven-safe skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve the casserole warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the small pasta with other types like mini shells or small rotini.
- For a vegan option, omit the cheeses or use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial; otherwise, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms based on your preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
