Prep Time: ~10 minutes | Cook Time: ~20–25 minutes | Total Time: ~30–35 minutes | Serves: 4
Introduction
Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans is a rich, creamy, deeply flavorful dish that blends tender butter beans with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a silky cream sauce. It’s cozy, simple to make, and perfect for serving with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. This one-pan recipe delivers warm Mediterranean comfort in every bite.
Why This Dish Works So Well
Butter beans absorb flavor beautifully, making them ideal for a creamy, herby sauce. The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan creates a savory, slightly tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the beans’ soft texture. Everything cooks in one pan, making it both quick and satisfying — perfect for weeknight meals or comforting dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
- ½ to 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut/plant cream for dairy-free)
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley, red pepper flakes
The Art of Making Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
This recipe builds flavor in layers. First aromatics like garlic and onion are sautéed, then sun-dried tomatoes deepen the base. Broth adds moisture; cream brings richness; beans simmer gently to absorb the sauce; Parmesan thickens and enriches the texture. A finishing sprinkle of herbs brightens everything.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic (and onion, if using). Cook until fragrant and soft, about 2–3 minutes.
Build the Sauce
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and sauté briefly.
Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Cream & Beans
Stir in cream.
Add butter beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are warmed through and sauce thickens slightly.
Finish & Thicken
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
Adjust seasoning, and add a splash of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or red pepper flakes.
Serve warm with crusty bread, cooked pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Best Results
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- Do not boil the cream — keep it at a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan gradually to avoid clumping.
- Rinse butter beans well to remove any canning liquid taste.
- A squeeze of lemon before serving can brighten the dish.
Variations
- Vegan: use coconut cream or plant-based cream + nutritional yeast.
- Add greens: stir in spinach or kale at the end.
- Add protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu work well.
- Make it spicy: add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it tangier: add a spoonful of sun-dried tomato oil or a bit of lemon zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheat on low, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans is a comforting, creamy, flavor-packed dish that comes together quickly and feels both rustic and elegant. Perfect for cozy nights, simple dinners, or when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
