Minestrone Casserole: A Hearty, Comforting Twist on a Classic Soup

Minestrone casserole takes the beloved Italian vegetable soup and transforms it into a satisfying, oven-baked dish. This casserole features tender pasta, fresh vegetables, beans, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheese for a comforting finish. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that brings warmth and nourishment to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish convenience – No need for multiple pots and pans. Everything bakes together for easy cleanup.
• Nutritious and hearty – Packed with fiber-rich beans, fresh vegetables, and whole-grain pasta.
• Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or add protein like ground turkey or sausage.
• Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups uncooked small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cannellini beans, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Mix in the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked pasta and transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

5. Add Cheese and Bake Again

Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Variations

• Protein boost – Add cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or ground turkey for extra protein.
• Gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-free – Swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether.
• Extra veggies – Toss in spinach, kale, mushrooms, or green beans for even more nutrients.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

To avoid mushy pasta, undercook it slightly before baking or use a heartier pasta shape like penne or rigatoni.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best as they absorb the flavors without becoming too heavy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

What’s a good side dish for minestrone casserole?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish well.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely! Try kidney beans, chickpeas, or black beans for variety.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Do I need to cook the pasta before adding it?

No, the pasta cooks in the oven by absorbing the broth and tomato sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, substitute with about 3 cups of fresh, chopped tomatoes.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also use provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different flavors.

Conclusion

Minestrone casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, offering all the flavors of traditional minestrone soup in a hearty baked dish. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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