Creamy Tomato White Bean Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 oz pasta of choice (penne or fusilli works well); Fresh basil for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato White Bean Pasta when I want something delicious yet effortless. The combination of creamy sauce, tomatoes, and protein-packed white beans creates a comforting dish that doesn’t take long to prepare. It’s incredibly satisfying and can easily be dressed up with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese. This dish not only nourishes my body but also warms my heart, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:28:09.901Z

When I first made this creamy pasta dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The white beans not only add a nice creaminess but also a healthy protein boost. I learned that blending the tomatoes with a bit of the cooking water creates a silky texture that coats the pasta perfectly.

Every time I prepare it, I find myself experimenting with different herbs or cheese options, but I always return to the original recipe for its comforting flavors. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal in under 30 minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that satisfies every craving.
Packed with protein from the white beans.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.

      

Understanding the Sauce

The key to a rich and creamy tomato sauce lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The crushed tomatoes provide a vibrant base, while the white beans add a hearty creaminess and extra protein. If you're looking to enhance the sauce with more depth, consider using fire-roasted tomatoes or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking. This small addition can amplify the sweetness and acidity, bringing the entire dish alive.

Don't overlook the importance of the garlic. Sautéing it in olive oil releases its aromatic properties, giving a robust flavor to the sauce. Be mindful not to overcook it; aim for a fragrant aroma and a slightly golden color to avoid bitterness. Timing your sautéing just right can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

Pasta Perfection

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for this creamy dish. While penne and fusilli capture the sauce beautifully, you can also experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you're after a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure a perfect al dente texture that holds up to the sauce without becoming mushy.

When combining the pasta and sauce, don’t forget to reserve that half cup of pasta water! This starchy water can help achieve the ideal creamy consistency. If your sauce seems too thick or the pasta dry, gradually add in a tablespoon at a time until you reach a silky, cohesive texture that clings to every piece of pasta.

Ingredients

For the creamy tomato sauce

2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta

12 oz pasta of choice (penne or fusilli works well)
Fresh basil for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Prepare the sauce

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, white beans, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine pasta and sauce

Remove the sauce from heat, then blend in the heavy cream. Add cooked pasta into the skillet and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Serve

Serve the creamy pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can sauté some onions with the garlic or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or arugula also make a lovely topping.

Storage and Reheating

This creamy tomato white bean pasta stores well, making it a great candidate for meal prep. If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce's creaminess, preventing it from drying out—heat on low, stirring gently to ensure even warming.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta sauce separately from the pasta. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use a microwave, then warm gently in a skillet, adding fresh pasta once heated. Remember, freshly cooked pasta adds texture and pulls the dish together beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

Feeling adventurous? Try adding additional vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce. Sauté them alongside the garlic for a boost of nutrients and flavor. Adding a bit of red pepper flakes can also give the dish a delightful kick, perfect for those who enjoy some heat.

If you're looking to make it vegan, substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream retains the creamy texture while keeping it plant-based. You can also swap the Parmesan with nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor enhancement without dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the white beans with chickpeas or any bean you have on hand.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta, and the recipe will be completely gluten-free!

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.