I can still remember the first time I tasted Pasta and Beans. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the kitchen while I watched my grandmother stir a big pot on the stove. That warm, comforting dish brought us together, and it quickly became a family favorite. There’s something magical about how simple ingredients can create such a hearty meal. This recipe matters because it embodies the essence of home cooking—nourishing, flavorful, and easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps; just good, honest food. What makes this dish special is how it warms not only your stomach but also your heart.
why make this recipe
Pasta and Beans is a perfect choice for many reasons. It’s comforting and filling, making it ideal for a cozy dinner. The recipe is simple and quick, so you can whip it up even on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that uses pantry staples. This dish is also versatile; you can adapt it to your taste by adding different vegetables or herbs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, Pasta and Beans always hits the spot.
how to make Pasta and Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Pasta and Beans
Serve Pasta and Beans in a bowl, generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese. A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish. It’s perfect for sharing and makes for a comforting meal any time of the year.
how to store Pasta and Beans
If you have any leftovers, let them cool down and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might need to add a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture.
tips to make Pasta and Beans
- Always season your meat while cooking for better flavor.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different twist.
- For added flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought if you have it.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrients.
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead. Adding spinach or other greens can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned beans work perfectly! Just rinse and drain them before adding.
2. What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as an alternative.
3. Can I freeze Pasta and Beans?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just store it in a suitable container, but be aware that the pasta may become softer when reheated.
Pasta and Beans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or sausage.
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed You can also use other canned beans.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth Homemade broth is preferred for added flavor.
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
Cooking
- Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.