Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A harmonious pasta dish where equal portions of creamy white beans and vibrant tomato sauce blend into a perfectly textured sauce that clings to al dente noodles. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends ounces dried penne pasta, cannellini beans, crushed tomatoes 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 480 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.

★ 4.0 (13 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; add 8 ounces dried penne pasta and cook for 10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1/2 cup cannellini beans and 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes, then add 1/4 cup vegetable broth and 1/4 teaspoon salt; simmer for 4 minutes until slightly thickened and the beans are tender.
  4. Step 4: Add the drained penne pasta and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet; toss vigorously for 2 minutes until the sauce coats every strand and reduces to a creamy consistency.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat; stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, then serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced Sauce take to make?

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

How do I store leftover Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced 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 Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced 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 Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced 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 Stovetop White Bean and Tomato Pasta with Balanced 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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