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Italian White Bean and Kale Bake - Bean Casserole Recipes

Let’s talk about comfort food that actually makes you feel good afterward. This Italian White Bean and Kale Bake is one of those cozy, heartwarming dishes that fills your kitchen with a smell that says, ‘Dinner’s almost ready!’ It’s got that perfect mix of creamy white beans, earthy kale, and tender veggies all tucked into a golden, bubbling bake. It’s basically a hug from the oven. I remember making this after a long week when all I wanted was something warm and simple but still a little fancy. The beans bring that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth thing, the kale adds a touch of freshness, and the whole casserole feels like a Mediterranean secret that somehow landed in my kitchen. This is one of those Italian casserole recipes that’s easy to love and even easier to eat. If you’ve got a soft spot for vegetable casserole recipes, or you’re searching for a greens and beans recipe Italian-style, this baked casserole will hit all the right notes. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without needing a ton of effort, and it sneaks in greens in a way that feels like a win. Trust me, this belongs in your go-to green bean recipes casserole list—it’s the perfect mix of tradition, simplicity, and flavor.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Baked Casserole Recipes, Bean Casserole Recipes, green bean casserole recipes, green bean recipes casserole, greens and beans recipe italian, italian casserole recipes, vegetable casserole recipes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 bunch kale, chopped and stems removed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add white beans, kale, cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until kale wilts slightly.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Let it rest a few minutes before serving—it’s even better slightly cooled.