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 choice; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; ½ cup vegetable broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Pasta because it's a comforting dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy and light. The flavors meld beautifully, with the white beans providing a lovely creaminess without heavy cream. It has become a go-to for our Sunday family dinners, and I often find everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for a busy day when you still want something special.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:10:26.395Z

When I first tried this creamy white bean pasta, I was genuinely surprised by how flavorful it was. The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates a vibrant dish that feels indulgent yet nutritious. I love to toss in some freshly grated Parmesan to enhance the richness, and it truly elevates the meal. It's amazing how just a few ingredients can transform a simple pasta into a standout dish.

One of my favorite tips for making this pasta is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. Adding it to the sauce at the right moment creates a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures every bite is coated in deliciousness. Trust me, this little technique will make all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy white bean sauce that's light yet indulgent
Fresh herbs bring a pop of flavor and brightness
Perfect for a family gathering or cozy weeknight meal

      

The Role of White Beans

In this recipe, white beans are the star ingredient, providing a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. Their natural creaminess adds volume to the sauce while also contributing protein and fiber, making this dish not only indulgent but also nutritious. When selecting white beans, varieties like cannellini or navy beans work especially well, as they break down beautifully and integrate into the sauce, enhancing its overall richness.

For those looking to switch things up, this recipe is quite flexible when it comes to bean choice. You could use chickpeas for a different flavor profile or even swap in lentils for added texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; lentils might require a bit more simmering to achieve the right creaminess.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are crucial to elevating the flavors of this creamy white bean pasta. The parsley not only provides a vibrant color contrast but also adds a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. I recommend chopping the parsley just before serving to retain its fresh flavor and aroma, as herbs can lose their potency when left sitting.

If you want to experiment further, consider adding fresh basil or some chopped spinach to the dish. Both can be stirred in at the end, allowing the residual heat from the pasta to wilt the greens while infusing the sauce with herbal notes. This enhances not just the flavor but also increases nutritional value, fitting perfectly into a wholesome family meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing this creamy pasta is simple. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, becoming a bit thicker once chilled.

To reheat, simply add the pasta to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water and stir gently until heated through. This will help restore some of the original creaminess. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs can help refresh the dish’s flavor as well.

Ingredients

Creamy White Bean Pasta Ingredients

12 oz pasta of choice
1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
½ cup vegetable broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the white beans and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bean mixture. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed spinach or kale into the pasta just before serving. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful color to the dish.

Perfect Pasta Cooking Tips

Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is key to achieving an excellent dish. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes, but it’s essential to check the package instructions, as different types of pasta may vary in cooking time. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce, avoiding a mushy final dish.

Remember to salt your boiling water generously; it should taste like the sea. This simple step enhances the pasta’s flavor and ensures a delicious base for the creamy sauce to cling to, making every bite a delight.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free version of this creamy white bean pasta, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many options are available now, from chickpea to brown rice pasta, which can add an extra layer of flavor. Keep an eye on the cooking times, as these can differ from traditional pasta.

If you're looking to make this dish vegan, you can easily omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a nutritional yeast blend for a similar umami flavor. For added creaminess, blend a few more beans into the sauce, enhancing both texture and taste without losing the beloved creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute white beans with chickpeas or cannellini beans for a different texture and flavor.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I freeze the pasta?

While freshly made pasta is best, you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2 months.