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creamy tomato white bean pasta bake recipe

Creamy Tomato White Bean Pasta Bake

Avatar photoNina Miller
A deliciously creamy and cheesy pasta bake featuring white beans, perfect for a hearty vegetarian meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Large pot

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound pasta penne or rigatoni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in the white beans, followed by the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour the creamy tomato sauce over it. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
  • Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Serving

  • Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure sauce consistency by adding pasta water if needed. Broil at the end for a crispy top.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best kept in the fridge and consumed within 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to assemble and bake.
Keyword cheesy bean casserole, creamy tomato white bean pasta bake, vegetarian pasta bake