It's Christmas week, and with all the rushing around for last minute shopping and preparations I wanted to have something that was relatively simple and could provide either a hearty meal for a small crowd or some delicious leftovers to help get through the next few days. That's when I came across this recipe.
You're probably thinking "didn't he just try a recipe a few weeks ago called Pasta Fagioli something?" Yes I did - a copycat version of Olive Garden's Pasta e Fagioli Soup, which you can find here. The name "Pasta e Fagioli" translates to "pasta and beans", and "Pasta Fagioli al Forno" translates to "baked pasta and beans", which makes sense given this is a casserole.
I've made two changes from the original recipe as written:
It called for only one can of Cannellini beans for a 13 x 9 casserole, and the result is the "beans" portion of the dish gets lost in all the other ingredients. I have altered the recipe card by adding half a can of beans; adjust the quantity as you see fit for your tastes.
It called for peeled whole tomatoes that are hand-chopped and then mixed into the sauce. I substituted crushed tomatoes to save time.
Adapted from Taste of Home
A simple and filling "Baked Pasta and Beans" casserole that's great for busy weeknights.
Adapted from Taste of Home
Prepare the pasta according to package directions, cooking to al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray a 13 x 9 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Add beans, half of the parsley, and half of the Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. Stir to combine. Stir in pasta and mix until well blended. Transfer mixture to the casserole dish. Top with provolone/fontina cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese.
Cover dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes or until cheese is completely melted. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with remaining parsley before serving if desired.
Servings 8
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.