Quick & Easy Maltagliati al Fagioli – Italian Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

Hearty, rustic, and full of comfort, Quick & Easy Maltagliati al Fagioli (Irregular-Shaped Pasta with Beans) is an Italian classic that proves simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying flavors. “Maltagliati” literally means “badly cut,” referring to the uneven, charming pieces of pasta traditionally made from scraps. Paired with creamy beans in a fragrant, brothy base, this dish is peasant food at its finest, nutritious, filling, and deeply rooted in tradition. Perfect for cozy evenings or a meatless meal that feels complete.

Ingredients:

Serves 2–3:

1. 150g (about 5 oz) maltagliati pasta (or substitute with broken lasagna sheets or pappardelle pieces)
2. 1½ cups cooked cannellini beans (or borlotti beans), drained
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1 small onion, finely chopped
5. 1 garlic clove, minced
6. 1 small carrot, finely diced
7. 1 celery stalk, finely diced
8. 1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth (plus more if needed)
9. Salt and black pepper to taste
10. 1 small sprig of rosemary or ½ teaspoon dried
11. Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional, to finish)
12. Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Beans & Broth

Stir in the beans and rosemary. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavors develop. If you prefer a creamier texture, mash a few beans with the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the maltagliati directly into the broth. Stir occasionally and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the broth has thickened slightly. Add more broth or water if needed.

Step 4: Season & Serve

Remove rosemary (if whole), season with salt and black pepper to taste, and serve hot. Finish with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh parsley if desired.

Optional Variations:

• Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or drizzle of chili oil.
• Add Greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Hearty Upgrade: Add pancetta or crispy bacon for a savory twist.
• Garlicky Goodness: Double the garlic for a bolder base flavor.
• Fresh Twist: Finish with lemon zest and extra virgin olive oil for brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rustic & Authentic – A humble dish with rich Italian roots.
• Plant-Based Comfort – Filling and flavorful without any meat.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes using pantry staples.
• Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
• Customizable – Great base for all kinds of variations.

This Quick & Easy Maltagliati al Fagioli is the definition of comfort food done right, simple, soulful, and utterly satisfying. Whether you're embracing Italian cucina povera or just craving a bowl of warm, hearty pasta, this dish is one you’ll return to again and again.