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Cozy One-Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe with Creamy White Beans Easy and Delicious

one-pot pasta e fagioli - featured image

A comforting and easy one-pot pasta e fagioli with creamy white beans, perfect for chilly nights or quick weeknight dinners. This recipe combines pantry staples and fresh herbs for a warm, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or small elbow macaroni)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional, or vegan alternative)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the drained white beans and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine and let the tomatoes break down slightly for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, add the rosemary sprig and thyme, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Add 1 cup of small pasta like ditalini. Stir well to prevent sticking, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  7. Let the pasta cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the liquid gets too thick before the pasta is tender.
  8. Remove the rosemary sprig, then season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Mash a few beans against the side of the pot and stir them in for extra creaminess and to thicken the broth naturally.
  10. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese alternative before serving.

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if not vegetarian. Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs adjusting quantities. Add extra broth or water if the dish thickens too much during cooking. For vegan, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen without pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, pasta e fagioli, creamy white beans, easy dinner, comfort food, vegetarian, gluten-free adaptable, weeknight meal