Marry Me Butter Beans With Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)
(Quick & Irresistible Comfort Food)
Ah, the irresistible allure of creamy butter beans in a rich, dreamy Tuscan sauce! This Marry Me Butter Beans dish is not just food—it’s a heartwarming hug in a bowl that whisks you away to sun-soaked Italian kitchens. Packed with savory garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of spice, this dish will have you swooning for seconds! Best of all, it comes together in a mere 15 minutes, making it a delightful choice for any weeknight dinner or spontaneous gathering. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this culinary love affair!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this dish! Here’s why you’ll be hooked:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates an explosion of taste that dances on your palate.
– Quick & Easy: Whip this up in just 15 minutes with minimal prep—perfect for those busy nights!
– Crowd-Pleaser: This creamy comfort food is sure to impress friends and family alike, making it an instant favorite.
– Customizable Delight: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s set the stage for the magic that’s about to unfold! With a short list of ingredients, you can create a memorable meal that feels elegant yet comforting. The sun-dried tomatoes and creamy parmesan are the true flavor game-changers that elevate this dish to culinary bliss.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
– 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
– 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
– 1 cup heavy cream (can sub half-and-half, 236 mL)
– ½ cup grated parmesan (50 g)
– 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of Marry Me Butter Beans is how versatile it is! Feel free to put your own spin on it with these creative variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, and enjoy without worry!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
– Make it Spicier: Amp up the heat with extra crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce!
– Swap the Greens: Try kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor.
– Colorful Additions: Add bell peppers or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrients!
How to Make Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)
Ready to create a bowl of happiness? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Marry Me Butter Beans sing with flavor!
Step 1: Create the Flavor Base
In a large sauté pan or pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, along with ½ teaspoon each of salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika, plus ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden.
Step 2: Add the Fillings
To your fragrant base, stir in ½ cup of roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ½ to 1 cup of vegetable broth. Then, add the 2 cans of drained butter beans. Let this simmer, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Finish with Creamy Goodness
Remove the pan from heat and fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach until it wilts. Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of grated parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta for a full meal!
Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)
For the best results, keep these pro tips in your back pocket:
– Don’t Rush the Garlic: Allow the garlic to cook just until fragrant; burning it will give a bitter taste.
– Creaminess Control: Adjust the amount of cream based on your preference—half-and-half works beautifully too!
– Broth Variation: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness and let the other flavors shine.
– Basil Freshness: Add the basil at the end to maintain its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)
Garnishes
Elevate your dish with beautiful garnishes! A sprinkle of extra parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few fresh basil leaves will add that extra touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
Pair these butter beans with a crisp green salad, fluffy jasmine rice, or a side of garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Yum!
Creative Ways to Present
Make it fun by serving in individual bowls, or for a festive gathering, arrange on a large platter with a fresh baguette on the side for everyone to dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more irresistible!
Freezing
Unfortunately, this creamy dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the good news is that it’s so quick to make, you can enjoy it any time!
Reheating
To serve after storage, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth to maintain creaminess!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bean?
Absolutely! While butter beans give a creamy texture, you can experiment with other beans like cannellini or chickpeas.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is adjustable! If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
Can I prepare this in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the base and store it in the fridge. Just add the cream and spinach before serving.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is a dreamy dish perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. With its quick prep time and comforting flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, and let the cooking magic begin! You’re going to love every creamy, delicious bite!
