This Creamy White Bean and Lemon Pasta is a comforting yet bright dish that brings together silky sauce, tender pasta, and fresh citrus notes. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it delivers richness without feeling heavy and is perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It is creamy without relying on heavy cream
Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients
Packed with plant-based protein from white beans
Bright lemon flavor balances the richness
Comes together quickly in one pan
Naturally comforting yet fresh and light
Easy to customize with vegetables or herbs
Suitable for vegetarian diets
Great for meal prep
Feels elegant while staying simple

Ingredients

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

340 g dry pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 100 g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can white beans (400 g can, 240 g drained and rinsed)
180 ml vegetable broth
120 ml milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
60 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
30 g grated parmesan-style cheese or vegetarian hard cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add the white beans, vegetable broth, and milk to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth and creamy.
Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, oregano, and chili flakes if using.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Stir in the grated cheese and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce is silky.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens
Stir in roasted cherry tomatoes for sweetness
Use chickpeas instead of white beans
Add sautéed mushrooms for deeper flavor
Replace parsley with fresh basil or dill
Make it spicy by increasing chili flakes
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
Add steamed broccoli or asparagus
Blend in a tablespoon of tahini for extra creaminess
Finish with toasted breadcrumbs for texture

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is also possible; heat in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes, simply use plant-based milk and a dairy-free parmesan-style cheese or omit the cheese entirely.

What type of white beans work best?

Cannellini beans or navy beans are ideal due to their creamy texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may change texture when thawed.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken alternatives or sautéed mushrooms work well.

Does this taste very lemony?

The lemon flavor is balanced and bright, not overpowering.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What herbs pair well with this recipe?

Parsley, basil, thyme, and dill all complement the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy White Bean and Lemon Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that proves comfort food can also feel fresh and wholesome. With its smooth texture, zesty flavor, and nourishing ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Perfect for weeknights, guests, or meal prep, this pasta offers both ease and elegance in every bite.