Pasta and Beans is a hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. This recipe combines savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and wholesome pasta to create a filling meal that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you want something delicious and satisfying.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Pasta and Beans because it is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to use everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! You can serve it as a main dish or a side. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends with the family.
How to Make Pasta and Beans
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks of celery, chopped
- 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (16 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s nice and brown. Don’t forget to drain any extra fat to keep it light and tasty!
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these until they become tender and smell amazing.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the rinsed kidney beans. Mix it all well; this is where the flavors come together!
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend perfectly.
- Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Pasta and Beans
Serve Pasta and Beans in large bowls. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top or serve it with warm crusty bread for dipping. It’s a great dish to share, so gather your family around the table and enjoy!
How to Store Pasta and Beans
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just warm it up when you want to enjoy it again!
Tips to Make Pasta and Beans
- Make sure to chop your vegetables finely for even cooking.
- Feel free to add some spices like garlic or Italian seasoning if you want an extra kick of flavor.
- Use lean ground beef to make the dish a bit healthier.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding more beans or lentils instead. You might also try using different types of beans or adding some spices based on your taste!
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can use turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you prefer. -
Is it okay to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or spinach. -
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead. The flavors often taste even better after sitting for a day. Just reheat before serving!
