This traditional French cassolette is a slow-baked dish of tender meats, creamy white beans, and aromatic herbs, finished with a golden, bubbling crust. Elegant yet hearty, it’s perfect for special dinners or cozy evenings.
⏱ Time & Servings
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
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Total Time: ~2 hours 10 minutes
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Servings: 4–6
🧾 Ingredients
Base
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
Proteins
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2 duck confit legs (shredded)
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2 Italian sausages, sliced
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1 cup cooked chicken thigh, cubed
(You may substitute lamb or turkey)
Beans & Liquid
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3 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or Great Northern)
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1½ cups chicken stock
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½ cup dry white wine
Seasoning
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
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1 bay leaf
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Salt & cracked black pepper
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Pinch of nutmeg (optional, gourmet touch)
Topping
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½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
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¼ cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan
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1 tbsp melted butter
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion and carrots until soft (6–8 minutes).
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. -
Build Flavor
Stir in tomato paste and cook until slightly caramelized.
Add white wine and simmer 2–3 minutes. -
Assemble the Cassolette
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
In an oven-safe casserole, combine beans, meats, sautéed vegetables, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. -
Add Stock & Bake
Pour in chicken stock until just covered.
Cover loosely and bake for 1 hour. -
Create the Golden Crust
Mix breadcrumbs, cheese, and melted butter.
Sprinkle over the top.
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes until bubbling and golden. -
Rest & Serve
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
🍽 Texture & Flavor
✔ Creamy, herb-infused beans
✔ Tender, rich meats
✔ Crispy golden crust
✔ Deep, slow-baked French flavor
⭐ Chef Tips
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Authentic touch: Break the crust once during baking and let it reform
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Luxury upgrade: Add pancetta or wild mushrooms
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Make ahead: Even better the next day
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Serve with: Crusty baguette & dry white wine
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 580
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Protein: 38g
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Fat: 34g
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