Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A hearty vegetarian pasta dish featuring a medley of beans simmered in a fresh tomato basil sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 45 minutes blends spaghetti, (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, thinly sliced fresh basil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant—do not let garlic brown.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed cannellini beans, 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed kidney beans, and 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 cups thinly sliced fresh basil and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss in the drained spaghetti and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, stirring until sauce coats pasta evenly.
  5. Step 5: Divide among bowls and top each serving with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce?

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 Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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.

Is Simmered Three-Bean Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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