Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, then my Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only comforting but also incredibly easy to whip up. In just 15 minutes, you can have a creamy bowl of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is its vibrant flavors and the flexibility it offers. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main dish, or side, these butter beans are sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and inviting flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delightful taste, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies too!
• Versatile: Serve it warm with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside your favorite pasta. It adapts to whatever you’re in the mood for!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you’re ready to enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Marry Me Butter Beans. You may already have many of these pantry staples on hand!

For the 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your thing, feel free to use kale or even arugula for a different twist.
• Add protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas to make this dish heartier without sacrificing flavor.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of basil for a unique aroma and taste.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

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

Step 1: Create the Flavor Base

Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic along with salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Sauté for about two minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This step builds a beautiful foundation of flavor that makes every bite so savory!

Step 2: Add the Fillings

Stir in half a cup of roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with your vegetable broth and two cans of drained butter beans. Continue cooking on medium heat uncovered for five minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together while heating everything through perfectly.

Step 3: Finish with Creaminess

Remove from heat and fold in one cup of chopped fresh spinach until wilted. Then stir in one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of grated parmesan cheese along with two tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. This final step transforms your dish into a creamy dream! Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or on pasta—your choice!

Now you’re all set to enjoy your delightful Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)!

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

Creating a delightful dish can be as easy as following a few simple tips to enhance your cooking experience and the final flavors!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and basil elevate the taste of your dish significantly. Fresh herbs and produce add vibrant flavors that dried or canned alternatives just can’t match.

• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. This allows you to tailor the richness of the sauce to your preference while still maintaining that creamy texture.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices based on your personal taste. Adding more crushed red pepper flakes can kick up the heat, while extra smoked paprika enhances the smoky flavor profile.

• Make it a meal: Add protein options like crispy tofu or chickpeas to make this dish even heartier. This not only boosts nutrition but also satisfies those who prefer a more substantial meal.

• Store leftovers wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is quick and easy, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches!

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

Serving this comforting bowl of Marry Me Butter Beans is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves on top add a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated vegan cheese: A sprinkle on top enhances the visual appeal and adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, this garnish provides both flavor and visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Perfect for scooping up the buttery beans and sauce; it complements the dish’s creamy texture beautifully.
• Garlic roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a colorful contrast and additional nutrients.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds a refreshing element that balances out the richness of the butter beans.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans tossed with lemon juice make for a crisp side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy main dish.

Now that you have these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and indulge in this deliciously quick comfort food! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is fantastic for meal prep because it stores well, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can have your meals ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the butter beans into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed for moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk cream. You can also omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.

How do I add more protein to my Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

You can add crispy tofu, chickpeas, or lentils for an extra boost of protein without compromising flavor. These additions blend beautifully with the creamy sauce!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! Fresh diced tomatoes can be used in place of sun-dried ones. Just be mindful that they will add a bit more moisture, so adjust your vegetable broth accordingly.

How long does it take to prepare Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

This delightful dish takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) as much as I do! This comforting recipe brings warmth and flavor to any table while being quick and easy. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, it’s bound to impress. Dive into this deliciousness and let me know how you customize your version—I can’t wait to hear from you!

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