Pasta And Fagiolo(Pasta And Beans)
Pasta and Fagiolo is a hearty Italian-inspired dish combining tender spaghetti twists, flavorful sausage, and creamy kidney beans in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare spaghetti twists as directed; drain and put into a 3-quart casserole.
- Heat sausages and 1/4 cup water to boiling; cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove cover; continue cooking until well browned.
- Drain sausage on paper towel.
- Cut sausage into 1-inch chunks and add to the casserole.
- In sausage drippings, cook diced onion and minced garlic until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add drained kidney beans, canned tomatoes with liquid, oregano, and 1/4 cup water.
- Heat to boiling; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the bean mixture to the spaghetti mixture; gently mix.
- Cover the casserole and bake for 50 to 55 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences. If you want to reduce the fat content, substitute the sweet Italian sausage with turkey sausage. You can also add some chopped spinach for extra nutrition, similar to Something Really Delicious (Spinach Bread). Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more garlic or herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta and Fagiolo pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Try serving it alongside Italian Deli Salad for a balanced dinner. For a comforting touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It also makes a great meal prep option for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Fagiolo(Pasta And Beans) contains roughly 378 calories, with 22g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 use different types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with other beans like cannellini or black beans, depending on your preference. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed if using canned beans for the best flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. Also, check that your broth is vegetable-based if you decide to add any.
Can I freeze Pasta and Fagiolo?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned.
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).