Pasta Bean Casserole
A hearty and cheesy pasta casserole with beans and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place a large frying pan on medium heat and add olive oil.
- When oil is hot, add minced onions and stir for 1 minute.
- Add chopped celery and stir for another minute.
- Reduce heat to low, add sea salt, sage, basil, and mustard, and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese.
- Mix cooked pasta and pinto beans together with the vegetable-cheese mixture.
- Place the mixture in a lightly oiled casserole dish.
- Add 1/2 cup water to the casserole to prevent burning.
- Cover and bake for about 30 minutes, removing the cover during the last 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting black beans for pinto beans or using different cheese, such as mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for vegetarian recipes. To enhance the dish, you can add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the vegetable mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can work wonders.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta Bean Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Hot Spinach Cheese Dip as an appetizer. It also works well for potlucks and family gatherings, providing a filling option for guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Bean Casserole contains roughly 802 calories, with 20g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1477mg per serving (64% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding a few minutes to the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cheddar cheese, you could use Monterey Jack, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese substitute. Each will give the casserole a different flavor profile, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
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).