Dressing it up!

[Kitchen Witch]

Ham and Bean Casserole

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large cooking onion -- diced
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 cups diced cooked ham
3 cups cooked white pea beans
2 cups canned tomatoes -- diced, see notes*
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
OR
1 cup grated Provolone cheese
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper
TOPPING
1 1/2 cups fresh bread crumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan or Romano cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil

In a nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium/high heat. Saute the onions and garlic until soft. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine the garlic/onion mixture with the ham, beans, tomatoes, cheese, basil and pepper. Spoon into a lightly greased 3 quart casserole dish. Combine all topping ingredients and spoon evenly over casserole. Bake in a preheated 350ºF oven for 30-40 minutes, or until topping is a light golden color.

NOTES : *Alternative: Substitute Italian or Mexican stewed tomatoes for a spicier casserole.