Pasta And Beans Casserole
A hearty pasta and bean casserole with rich tomato flavors, seasoned with herbs and garlic, perfect for a comforting, easy-to-make family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni with tomato wedges, tomato sauce, pinto beans, minced garlic, oregano, bay leaf, salt, sweet basil, chopped parsley, and onion powder.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, cover, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese before baking. You can substitute pinto beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor. If you're short on time, use canned macaroni instead of dry, but adjust baking time accordingly. Fresh herbs can be added for enhanced flavor, and feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad for a complete meal, and consider pairing it with crusty bread or the Never Fail Hot Rolls for added texture. A sprinkle of additional fresh parsley on top before serving adds a pop of color and flavor. This dish can also be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish at family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Beans Casserole contains roughly 520 calories, with 24g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (190% of the Daily Value), and calcium (135% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2339mg per serving (102% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Pasta and Beans Casserole is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy. It's a great way to enjoy comforting American recipes while keeping it plant-based.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta shapes may require varying cook times to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
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).