Macaroni And Beans
A hearty and comforting pasta dish featuring beans, garlic, tomato sauce, and cheese, perfect for a quick, nutritious meal suitable for vegetarians and pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, fry minced garlic gently in olive oil until golden brown.
- Add tomato sauce and water; cook for 10 minutes.
- Add beans and stir gently.
- Continue to cook on simmer.
- Cook pasta al dente, then drain and add to the bean mixture.
- Stir gently to combine.
- If the mixture gets too thick, add a little more water.
- Add chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately to prevent pasta from absorbing all the liquid.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the dish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider using chickpeas or black beans instead of cannellini beans. If you want to add more flavor, try sautéing some diced onions along with the garlic. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for an extra burst of flavor, similar to what you might find in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a vibrant dish like Pesto With Pasta to add variety to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid, adding a bit more water will help restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Beans contains roughly 250 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 518mg per serving (23% 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 dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. The dish is already plant-based with the beans and pasta, making it a great choice for those following a vegan diet.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.
Can I freeze macaroni and beans?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra water if needed.
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).