Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, let me introduce you to my beloved Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). This recipe is hands down one of my favorite go-tos for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when I need a comforting bowl of goodness. With creamy butter beans enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce, it’s hard not to fall in love with every spoonful!

What makes this dish extra special is how quickly it comes together—just 15 minutes! You can easily whip it up after a long day, and trust me, it’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, there’s plenty of room to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have at home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 15 minutes to prepare—perfect for those hurried evenings.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves the creamy texture and savory taste; kids and adults alike will ask for more!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap or add veggies based on your preferences. It’s fun to make it your own!
• Comforting Dish: The combination of butter beans and creamy sauce creates a warm hug in a bowl.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet wholesome, making it easy to create something delicious without fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Flavor Base

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

For the Filling

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (roughly chopped)
• ½ to 1 cup vegetable broth (120 to 236 mL)
• 2 15-oz cans butter beans (aka lima beans, drained, 425 g cans)
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream (can sub half-and-half, 236 mL)
• ½ cup grated parmesan (50 g)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can mix things up based on what you love or have on hand.

• Swap the greens: Instead of spinach, try adding kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
• Add some protein: Toss in crispy tofu or chickpeas to make it heartier and add extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.

How to Make Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

In a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic along with salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper. Sauté this mixture for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is essential as it builds the flavor foundation of your dish!

Step 2: Add Fillings

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes along with your choice of vegetable broth and the drained butter beans. Cook everything uncovered on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Finish with Creaminess

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Then gently fold in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. This is where your dish transforms into a creamy dream! Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for an amazing meal everyone will adore.

There you have it—a quick recipe bursting with flavor that brings comfort to any table! Enjoy every bite of these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce).

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and I’m here to make sure your journey with these Marry Me Butter Beans is as smooth as possible! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic, spinach, and basil. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your meal, making it even more delicious.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to tweak the amount of cream based on your preference. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a unique twist that maintains the creaminess without being too heavy.
• Experiment with Greens: Don’t hesitate to substitute the spinach with other greens like kale or arugula. Each green brings its own special flavor and texture, allowing you to personalize the dish according to your tastes.
• Add Protein: For an extra boost, consider adding crispy tofu or chickpeas. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds a satisfying texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Make It Ahead: This dish stores beautifully! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when needed. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy meal prep during busy weeks.

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

Serving this dish can be just as fun as making it! With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, you’ll want to present it beautifully. Here are some delightful ideas to showcase your Marry Me Butter Beans.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of additional fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A light dusting of red pepper flakes not only enhances the visual appeal but also gives an enticing hint of heat.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest provides a bright contrast that balances out the creaminess perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love buttery, garlicky goodness?
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the butter beans.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add both color and nutrition. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and your favorite herbs.
• Steamed Rice: Fluffy steamed rice is an excellent base for this dish; it absorbs all those delicious flavors while adding heartiness to your meal.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of Marry Me Butter Beans that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about Marry Me Butter Beans is how fantastic they are for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy reheating later.
• Marry Me Butter Beans can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different beans in my Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

Yes! While butter beans give this dish its signature creaminess, you can substitute them with other canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas. Just make sure they are well-drained and rinsed.

How do I make Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit the parmesan or use a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

These butter beans are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or tossed with pasta for a heartier meal.

Can I add more vegetables to the Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale. Just remember to adjust cooking times so everything is perfectly cooked!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about trying these Marry Me Butter Beans as I am! This recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s also a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy. Enjoy making it your own by adding your favorite ingredients, and don’t forget to share your variations. Happy cooking!