Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! These Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) are not just comforting but also incredibly easy to whip up. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a bowl of creamy, flavorful goodness that everyone will love. Plus, the best part? You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand!

This recipe is special to me because it combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors, making it a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it with crusty bread, over rice, or served alongside pasta, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones and leave them asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in only 15 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and rich flavor, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry—this dish is super flexible.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious butter beans and fresh veggies, this recipe makes comfort food a little healthier.
• Delicious Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt!), they make for a delightful lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients! You might already have many of these staples in your pantry. Each ingredient contributes to that rich and creamy Tuscan flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.

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

One of the best things about these Marry Me Butter Beans is their flexibility. You can mix and match ingredients based on your cravings or dietary needs!

• Swap the greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
• Add some protein: Toss in crispy tofu or chickpeas for an added protein boost.
• Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños.
• Cream alternative: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and delicious.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Heat 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, along with 4 cloves minced garlic, ½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper. Sauté these ingredients in a large sauté pan over medium heat for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the garlic to become fragrant and sets the stage for all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Add the Fillings

Next, stir in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, followed by ½ to 1 cup vegetable broth, and then gently add in the drained butter beans. Continue cooking on medium heat without covering for about 5 minutes. This will help meld all the flavors together beautifully while warming up those delicious beans.

Step 3: Finish with Creaminess

Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup chopped fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly—the key here is freshness! Then pour in 1 cup heavy cream, along with ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, and finally sprinkle in 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta for a meal that truly feels like a hug in a bowl!

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

Creating the perfect bowl of Marry Me Butter Beans is a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach will provide a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish compared to dried or frozen alternatives.
• Control the spice level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Less spice means a milder dish, while more can add an exciting kick!
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap out basil for other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a unique twist that complements the creamy sauce.
• Make it your own: Add in extra veggies such as mushrooms or zucchini, or even throw in some crispy tofu if you want added texture and protein!
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm; letting it sit too long may alter its creamy consistency.

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

Presenting your Marry Me Butter Beans beautifully can make this comforting dish even more delightful. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of whole leaves adds a lovely burst of color and enhances the aromatic profile.
• Grated dairy-free cheese: For those who prefer non-dairy options, topping with dairy-free cheese can bring creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Garlic sautéed greens: Pair with sautéed kale or Swiss chard drizzled with olive oil and garlic for a nutritious side that complements the richness of the beans.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that brightens up your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots not only add vibrant color but also provide a sweet and savory balance to the dish.

Enjoy these delightful suggestions as you prepare your Marry Me Butter Beans! With each serving, you’re sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is not only quick to prepare but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep any toppings or sides separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Cool the butter beans completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion, for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce):

Can I use different beans for Marry Me Butter Beans?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for butter beans, you can easily substitute them with other canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

What should 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. You could even add a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal!

How can I customize my Marry Me Butter Beans?

Feel free to get creative! Adding vegetables like kale or spinach works beautifully. You might also consider incorporating crispy tofu or other plant-based proteins for more substance.

Can I make Marry Me Butter Beans ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) as much as I do! This recipe stands out not just for its creamy goodness but also for its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!