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Pasta al Forno con Fagioli Pinto e Formaggio (Baked Pasta with Pinto Beans and Cheese)

Italian1 Hour
Punchline

Comfort food at its best, Pasta al Forno con Fagioli Pinto e Formaggio will warm your heart and fill your belly!

ingredients
pasta250grams
pinto beans400grams
tomato sauce400grams
cheese200grams
onion1piece
olive oil2tablespoon
salt1teaspoon
pepper1teaspoon
herbs2teaspoon
instructions
    1

    Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).

    2

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook for about 8 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.

    3

    In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until it's translucent.

    4

    Add the pinto beans and tomato sauce to the skillet with the onion. Stir in salt, pepper, and herbs. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

    5

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the tomato bean mixture, mixing well.

    6

    Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese over it.

    7

    Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the cheese.

    8

    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

    9

    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

    10

    Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Servings

4

How to be creative
  • Add cooked spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
  • Mix in your favorite Italian sausage or ground meat for a meaty version.
  • Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
Important Tips
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of flavor.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a slight tang.
  • Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook while baking.
nutritions
  • fat: 10 grams
  • protein: 20 grams
  • calories: 400
  • carbohydrates: 60 grams
Health impact

This dish includes protein from beans, fiber from pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.