Description
Mediterranean-inspired spinach and white bean gratin combines rustic charm with rich bacon notes. Crispy breadcrumbs crown this hearty French-style casserole, promising comfort in each savory, cheesy bite you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups baby spinach (stems removed)
- 2 cans (14 ounces / 397 grams each) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided, plus more for serving)
- 3 slices bacon (cooked crispy and crumbled)
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ⅓ cup jarred roasted red peppers (diced)
Liquids and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil or rosemary
- Coarse salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 400°F (204°C) and thoroughly coat an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. Gently sauté the diced onion, chopped red bell pepper, and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and translucent.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then add most of the white beans, leaving approximately ½ cup aside. Carefully fold in the fresh spinach leaves and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, ensuring the spinach wilts and becomes tender.
- Crush the reserved white beans using a fork until they form a slightly chunky paste, then incorporate this into the skillet, creating a thicker, more cohesive texture.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly chopped basil and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Carefully transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Once removed from the oven, garnish the gratin with crumbled crispy bacon pieces. Serve immediately, offering additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who desire extra flavor.
Notes
- Discover a cozy, comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal bursting with flavor and nutrition.
- Mashing some beans creates a creamy texture that binds the gratin together, adding unexpected richness to every bite.
- Fresh basil introduces a bright, aromatic element that cuts through the hearty beans and salty bacon perfectly.
- Parmesan cheese melts into golden, crispy edges, providing a delightful crunch and deep umami undertone to the entire dish.
- Cooking onions and peppers slowly develops a sweet, caramelized base that elevates the entire gratin’s complexity and depth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, Broiling
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg