Introduction
Transform humble pantry staples into a hearty, flavorful vegetarian pizza casserole in under an hour! This recipe is your weeknight savior, delivering big on taste without sacrificing precious time. Perfect for busy cooks who crave delicious, satisfying meals without the fuss.
Why This Works
This recipe shines because it’s incredibly versatile, uses common ingredients, and requires minimal cleanup. The combination of creamy white beans, savory rice, and pizza-inspired toppings creates a comforting and surprisingly addictive dish the whole family will love. It’s the ultimate comfort food, ready in a flash!
Key Ingredients
- 🍅 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🍚 2 cups cooked rice
- 🫘 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧅 ½ cup chopped onion
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🧀 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cannellini beans, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If using, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
5️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
6️⃣ Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the casserole.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Add them in step 2 with the other ingredients.
- If you don’t have cooked rice, you can use leftover rice, or cook it quickly in just 15 minutes before starting the casserole.
Heat Control
The 375°F (190°C) oven temperature ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the casserole is heated through without burning. Don’t overbake; slightly underbaked is better than overbaked for this recipe.
Crunch Factor
While this casserole is primarily creamy and comforting, you can add a satisfying crunch by topping it with some crushed tortilla chips or toasted breadcrumbs in the last few minutes of baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole makes a fantastic, hearty gift! Package individual portions in oven-safe containers, adding a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Mediterranean: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
🌟 Mexican: Use black beans instead of cannellini beans and add corn, diced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cumin.
🌟 Cheesy: Increase the amount of cheese or add different types, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Troubleshooting
- Too dry: Add a splash of milk or cream to the casserole mixture before baking.
- Overly browned: Cover the casserole loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Undercooked rice: Ensure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of beans? Yes, kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans all work well.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze it before baking or after baking and reheating as needed.
- How many servings does this make? This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided your other ingredients are.
Conclusion
This Vegetarian Pizza Casserole is a guaranteed weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, delicious and perfect for busy weeknights. Share this recipe with your friends and family – let’s all enjoy some easy, delicious food!
30-Minute Vegetarian Pizza Casserole: Weeknight Winner
This quick and easy vegetarian pizza casserole is packed with flavor and can be on your table in just 30 minutes of prep time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190u00b0C (375u00b0F).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sautu00e9 until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetable sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves and serving.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- For extra flavor, add sliced olives or pepperoni-style vegetarian alternatives.