Creamy Baked Pasta with White Beans and Cheddar

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Creamy Baked Pasta with White Beans and Cheddar is a comforting dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese sauce with the hearty texture of white beans. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a warm, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With its crispy breadcrumb topping and fresh herb garnish, it’s a dish that not only tastes good but looks delightful on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy baked pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to comfort food. Here are a few reasons to love it:

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: The white beans add protein and fiber.
• Creamy Texture: A delicious cheese sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy it for lunch the next day!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 1 can (15 ounces) of white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Baked Pasta with White Beans

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked pasta and white beans to the skillet, then stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• For a creamier sauce, you can add more cream or cheese to your mixture.
• Be generous with the seasoning; taste and adjust as necessary before baking.
• Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor, such as mozzarella or Parmesan.

Easy Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Substitute the white beans with chickpeas or any other preferred beans.
• Incorporate cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.
• Use different herbs like basil or oregano for a flavor twist.

What to Serve With It

• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread.
• Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans.
• A light soup, like minestrone or tomato basil.

Storage and Reheating

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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions until hot.

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