Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta
A simple pasta dish that transforms canned tomatoes and beans into a satisfying meal using only pantry essentials. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 25 minutes pairs spaghetti, olive oil, minced garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) drained white beans
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp pasta water
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 2 tbsp pasta water.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 can diced tomatoes and 1 can drained white beans. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the drained spaghetti and 2 tbsp reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously for 1 minute until sauce coats the pasta.
- Step 4: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and toss until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep spaghetti from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Pantry-Style Tomato and Bean Pasta?
Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
This is my new go-to pasta. So flavorful and quick.
- ★★★★★
My kids asked for seconds! Great for busy weeknights.
- ★★★★★
The tomato and bean combo is perfect, and so easy with pantry staples!
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