This easy, creamy white bean pasta is a comforting vegan dish with a smooth alfredo-style sauce made entirely from simple pantry ingredients. The sauce is rich and velvety without using dairy, nuts, or soy, and it comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect when you want a fast, wholesome pasta dish that still feels indulgent. The white beans create a naturally creamy sauce packed with plant-based protein and fiber, while the mild flavor makes it especially kid-friendly. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and ideal for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative to classic creamy pasta sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz pasta of choice (use gluten-free pasta if needed)
• 15.5 oz canned white beans, drained (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in well-salted water. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over low heat in a skillet. Add the diced onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a blender. Add the lemon juice, drained white beans, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water.
4. Blend until completely smooth. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of pasta water and blend again until the sauce is silky and creamy.
5. Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and warm it gently over low heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables
• Stir in 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a deeper savory flavor
• Add a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist
• Toss in plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or gently warm on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use any type of white beans?

Yes, cannellini beans, navy beans, or great northern beans all work well.

Is this pasta sauce gluten-free?

The sauce itself is gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta to keep the entire dish gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce oil-free?

Yes, you can replace the olive oil with 1/4 cup vegetable broth when sautéing the onion and garlic.

Why does the sauce thicken as it cools?

White beans naturally thicken as they cool, so the sauce should be slightly thin when hot.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What pasta shapes work best?

Spiral or ridged pasta shapes hold the sauce especially well, but any pasta will work.

Can I add extra protein?

You can add more beans, lentils, or a plant-based protein of your choice.

Does this recipe taste like beans?

The beans have a very mild flavor and mostly add creaminess rather than a strong bean taste.

Can I blend the sauce without a blender?

A high-powered immersion blender or food processor can also be used.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, the mild, creamy flavor makes it very appealing to kids.

Conclusion

Easy, Creamy White Bean Pasta is a simple yet satisfying meal that proves comfort food can also be nourishing. With minimal ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, this recipe is a reliable go-to for busy days when you want something delicious, wholesome, and plant-based.

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