Sunday Creamy White Bean Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up this Sunday Creamy White Bean Pasta as a comforting meal to wind down the week. The rich creaminess of the white beans paired with perfectly al dente pasta creates a delightful experience for both the palate and the soul. I often find myself experimenting with additional herbs and spices to personalize the dish to my taste. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe yields a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into my diet.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:31:14.072Z

As I was preparing dinner one Sunday evening, I wanted something simple yet flavorful. My pantry was stocked with white beans and pasta, and I decided to create a creamy dish that would highlight those ingredients. After experimenting with different herbs, I discovered that a hint of garlic and a splash of lemon juice elevated the flavors beautifully. This method not only enhances the creaminess but also guarantees a refreshing twist.

We've enjoyed this pasta multiple times since then, often pairing it with a side salad for added crunch and nutrition. I love serving it to friends, and they are always surprised at how quickly I can put it together. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, and leftovers are just as delicious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that satisfies cravings without heavy creams
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Packed with protein from white beans for a wholesome dish

      

Understanding the Creamy Element

The white beans in this recipe are the star ingredient when it comes to creating that signature creamy texture. Unlike traditional cream, the beans give a rich mouthfeel without overwhelming the dish. When blended with vegetable broth, they form a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully. Ensure you blend them just enough to create that creamy vibe while leaving a few whole for texture. This balance is crucial for a satisfying eating experience.

If you’re looking for alternatives, cannellini or navy beans can also work well, though I favor great northern beans for their mild flavor that complements the dish. Also, remember to rinse the beans thoroughly to wash away any excess sodium from the canning process, which helps maintain the purity of flavors in your pasta.

Making the Most of Your Pasta

Choosing the right pasta shape can elevate your dish further. I recommend using shapes like fusilli or farfalle that can catch the creamy sauce and beans in their nooks and crannies. If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free pasta, feel free to substitute. Just adjust the cooking time as these alternatives may require different boiling times to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

When you drain your cooked pasta, tossing it with a splash of olive oil can help prevent sticking, especially if you're preparing it in advance for later use. This is particularly useful if you plan on reheating leftovers; a little oil will keep everything from clumping together.

Serving Suggestions and Leftover Ideas

To enhance the dish when serving, consider a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. A few red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat. Additionally, serving with a simple side salad can provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta, balancing out the meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to recreate that creamy consistency as it tends to thicken in the fridge. This will ensure every bite remains deliciously comforting, just like when it was freshly made.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Gather all your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the white beans and thyme, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Blend

Pour in the vegetable broth and half of the reserved pasta water. Use a fork or potato masher to blend some of the beans for a creamy texture while leaving some whole for bite. Adjust the mixture with additional water if necessary.

Mix Pasta and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the pot, tossing to combine. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your creamy pasta dish with a sprinkle of extra herbs or cheese if desired!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce. This dish also works great with whole grain or gluten-free pasta alternatives.

Batch Cooking and Freezing

This creamy white bean pasta can be easily adapted for meal prep by cooking a larger batch. Just double or triple the ingredients, especially the beans and vegetable broth, to maintain that creamy sauce consistency. Portion out individual servings to store in airtight containers or freezer bags. This makes for quick, satisfying meals on busy days.

When freezing, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated. And to preserve the mustard hue and flavor, make sure to cool completely before freezing. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months for best quality.

Ingredient Substitution Tips

If you're out of vegetable broth, water can be a fine substitute, but the depth of flavor may not be as rich. Consider adding extra herbs or a splash of soy sauce to enhance the taste. For a touch of indulgence, you could use a splash of coconut milk to introduce a subtle sweetness while keeping it plant-based.

For those looking to cut back on carbohydrates, spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash can serve as beautiful alternatives to traditional pasta, creating a lighter dish that still feels hearty and satisfying. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking and making them too mushy.

Flavor Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your creamy white bean pasta to suit your taste or pantry availability. Adding sautéed spinach or kale introduces a pop of color and freshness, while sun-dried tomatoes can bring a tangy bite that contrasts well with the creaminess of the beans.

For a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating olives and feta cheese, which will add saltiness and depth. You can also experiment with different herbs; basil or rosemary could offer a thrilling variation while keeping the dish vibrant and aromatic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans are perfect for this recipe and save you time.

→ What type of pasta works best?

While any pasta works, I recommend using a shape like penne or fusilli for the best sauce adherence.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses only plant-based ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.