Chuck'S Pasta And Fagioli(Beans And Macaroni)
A comforting Italian-inspired pasta and bean dish with garlic, tomatoes, and fresh parsley, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal that suits family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry garlic in olive oil until golden brown.
- Add tomato sauce, Italian tomatoes, and chopped red onion; cook for 10 minutes.
- Add cannellini beans; stir gently and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni until al dente; drain.
- Add cooked macaroni to the bean and tomato mixture.
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the liquid.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. If you're out of cannellini beans, white kidney beans or navy beans work well as substitutes. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. This pasta and fagioli makes a comforting meal, especially on chilly nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pasta and fagioli with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or pair it with a fresh Italian Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal. A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra parsley enhances presentation. This dish also pairs beautifully with Pizza - Healthy for a fun family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture, as the pasta may absorb liquid. Microwave in 30-second intervals or heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through. Avoid boiling to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuck'S Pasta And Fagioli(Beans And Macaroni) contains roughly 719 calories, with 31g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 965mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the pasta used is egg-free and substituting any dairy cheese with a vegan alternative. The dish is hearty and flavorful enough that it won't lose its essence without animal products.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or use spicy Italian sausage instead of cannellini beans for a meaty twist. You can also top the dish with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.
What can I serve with pasta and fagioli?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. For a heartier meal, you could also offer Polish Italian Pierogies on the side, which complement the flavors nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).