There’s something truly special about a dish that carries the warmth of family tradition. Fagioli in Teccia, or “Beans in a Casserole,” is a rustic Italian recipe straight from my mother-in-law’s kitchen—slightly altered but still holding onto its authentic, comforting essence. This dish is rich, hearty, and full of deep, satisfying flavors that make it a perfect meal especially for cooler weather.

The Story Behind the Beans in a casserole dish
Originating from Northern Italy, Fagioli in Teccia is a humble yet flavorful dish traditionally cooked in a clay or cast-iron pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It combines the heartiness of beans with the robust taste of sausage, all simmered in a rich tomato and wine-infused broth. This version keeps true to its roots while adding a slight twist for extra depth.
Why You’ll Love This Beans in a casserole
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, to make this a great dish for any home cook.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of sausage, beans, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a wine-infused broth creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and packed with goodness, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Whether you’re looking to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen or simply craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, Fagioli in Tecci is a must-try. Give it a go and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear about your experience!
Beans in a casserole
Ingredients:
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, crushed
5ml olive oil
2 cans of beans (1 red bean, 1 white bean)
200g green beans, cut into 2cm pieces
500g sausage (beef or pork or a combination)
15ml tomato paste
3 bay leaves
5ml black pepper
2.5ml Cumin grounded
500ml chicken stock
125ml red wine
15ml corn flour (mixed with 60ml water to make a slurry)
Directions:
- Brown the Sausages – In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the sausages until golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Base – Using the same pan, add the olive oil and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Deglaze with Red Wine – Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until the alcohol cooks off. This adds a deep richness to the dish.
- Build the Flavor – Transfer the mixture to a large pot. Stir in the tomato paste until fully combined.
- Add the Beans – Drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the pot, followed by the green beans.
- Simmer to Perfection – Pour in the chicken stock, black pepper, ground cumin and bay leaves. Let everything simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce – Stir in the corn flour slurry and allow the dish to cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve and Enjoy! – Remove the bay leaves, serve hot with a side of crusty bread, and enjoy this comforting Italian classic.
Perfect Pairings with the Beans in a casserole dish
Fagioli in Teccia is best enjoyed with a slice of warm, rustic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of bold red wine, like a Chianti or Barbera, complements the dish beautifully. If you’re looking to add a fresh touch, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect side.