3 bean casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 3 bean casserole recipe

I’ve been making 3 bean casserole for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites.

It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I like that it’s made with canned beans, which are easy to find and affordable.

The combination of three types of beans – kidney, black, and pinto – adds texture and flavor to the dish. When I’m cooking for a crowd, I often double or triple the recipe, as it freezes well and reheats nicely.

My family loves when I serve it with a side of crusty bread or over rice. This casserole is also a great way to get in some fiber and protein with the added bonus of being easy on the wallet.

It’s a staple in our house and one that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Three Bean Casserole

4.6 from 613 votes

A hearty and comforting casserole made with a trio of beans in a savory tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, offering a satisfying and protein-rich meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2While the oven heats, prepare the bean mixture to ensure even cooking.
3Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
5Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet.
6Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7Fold in the drained kidney beans, cannellini beans, and black beans into the sauce.
8Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the beans are heated through.
9Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
10Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs.
11Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
12Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a spicier casserole, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other spices. You can also substitute the cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese.

Watch Video Of How Three Bean Casserole Works

This 3 bean casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize to suit your taste preferences.

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy on the wallet and packed with fiber and protein, then look no further than this tried-and-true recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Three Bean Casserole

Q: What type of beans should I use?

In this recipe, you can use any combination of kidney, black, or pinto beans. You can also substitute with other types of beans if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, omit the cheese topping or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.

Q: How do I reheat this casserole?

This casserole reheats nicely in the oven or on the stovetop. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes. On the stovetop, reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?

This recipe is quite versatile – feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or omit it altogether if you prefer.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This casserole freezes well and can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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