Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is an indulgent, flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself. The creamy butter beans are cooked to perfection and bathed in a rich, velvety Tuscan-inspired sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a touch of cream or coconut milk for extra richness. The sauce is seasoned with Italian herbs, a hint of red pepper flakes for heat, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan (optional for a non-vegan version) to elevate the flavors.
The first time I made this, I was in the mood for something comforting and full of flavor, and Marry Me Butter Beans exceeded all expectations! The creamy beans soak up the savory Tuscan sauce, creating a perfect bite with every spoonful. What I love most about this dish is how the butter beans’ smooth, mild flavor complements the bold, garlicky sauce, making it incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can be served over pasta, alongside roasted veggies, or even paired with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s an easy way to make an unforgettable meal with a bit of luxury!
Perfect for:
- Cozy weeknight dinners
- Impressing guests with minimal effort
- Vegetarian meal options
- Lovers of creamy, flavorful dishes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) will be your new favorite comfort food:
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The creamy Tuscan sauce is perfectly balanced with garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- High in Plant-Based Protein: Butter beans are a great source of protein and fiber.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan for less mess and fuss.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Feels gourmet without requiring complicated techniques.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A satisfying meat-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy, savory flavors are universally loved.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 2 cups cooked butter beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread for serving
Ingredient Highlights
- Butter Beans: Creamy and tender, they’re the star of the dish and packed with nutrients.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a punch of umami and tangy sweetness to the sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Balances the richness of the sauce with a pop of freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat to enhance the flavors (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Base:
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Build the Sauce:
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour in vegetable broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Incorporate the Beans:
- Add Butter Beans: Stir in cooked butter beans and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
Finish with Spinach:
- Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Season and Serve:
- Season to Taste: Add Parmesan cheese (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust to your liking.
Serve:
- Plate and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a side of crusty bread.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce):
- Over Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta for a creamy, protein-packed meal.
- With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over grains for a hearty and filling dinner.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
- With Garlic Bread: Use crusty garlic bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
- As a Dip: Serve with pita chips or toasted baguette slices for a unique appetizer.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Spoon over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
- As a Casserole: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a golden, crispy finish.
- With Zoodles: Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Topped with a Fried Egg: Add a fried egg on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
- In a Bread Bowl: Ladle into a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic presentation.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can add extra flavor to the sauce. A small handful of fresh herbs can elevate the dish.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Lemon Zest for Brightness: Adding a bit of lemon zest right before serving can enhance the flavor with a refreshing citrus note.
- Pair with Crusty Bread: This dish goes perfectly with crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce, making for a satisfying meal.
- Boost the Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef sausage to the butter beans and sauce.
- Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, swap the cream for coconut cream and use plant-based butter.
- Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic fan, feel free to increase the amount of garlic in the recipe for a more robust flavor.
- Cheese Option: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over the top just before serving for a salty, savory finish.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the butter beans and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken or Shrimp: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Mushroom Lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness.
- White Bean Swap: Substitute butter beans with cannellini or great northern beans.
- Herb Twist: Add thyme or oregano for a more herbal flavor.
- Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in mozzarella or goat cheese for a creamier texture.
- Tomato-Based: Replace half the cream with crushed tomatoes for a tangier sauce.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
- Nutty Touch: Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch and flavor.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: For preparing the dish in one pan.
- Wooden Spoon: To stir the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Ladle: For serving the creamy sauce.
FAQ Section
- Can I use canned butter beans?
Yes, canned butter beans work perfectly—just rinse and drain them well. - Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely! Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. - Can I use another type of bean?
Yes, cannellini beans or chickpeas are great substitutes. - How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit Parmesan. - What pairs well with this dish?
Garlic bread, pasta, or a simple side salad complements the dish beautifully. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it’s easy to double for a larger crowd. - Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy and mild, making it appealing for kids. - Can I add wine to the sauce?
A splash of white wine can enhance the flavor—add it after sautéing the aromatics. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the creamy texture of butter beans with a flavorful, garlic-infused Tuscan sauce. The butter beans are tender and smooth, while the sauce is made from a blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and cream (or coconut cream for a vegan twist). The sauce is gently simmered to allow the flavors to meld, creating a luscious coating for the beans. A touch of Parmesan (or a dairy-free alternative) adds richness and depth to the sauce, making it absolutely irresistible.
This dish is savory and comforting, perfect as a main course or a side dish. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce or pair it with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
I can’t wait to see how your Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!