Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, look no further than these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly quick to whip up. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have a comforting meal ready to share with your loved ones. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around the table!

The creamy sauce combined with tender butter beans creates a delightful experience that feels luxurious yet is simple enough for any night of the week. And if you want to get creative, feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or proteins!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal.
• Comforting and creamy: The rich sauce makes every bite feel like a treat.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors in this dish.
• Versatile options: Easily customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need to create these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce):

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap in different greens: Try kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
• Add some crunch: Toss in crispy tofu or chickpeas for added protein and texture.
• Change up the cheese: Use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative or any cheese you love!
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.

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

Step 1: Create the Flavor Base

Start by heating 2 Tbsp of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add 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 is fragrant. This step is important as it lays down a flavorful foundation that will enhance every bite of your dish.

Step 2: Add the Fillings

Next, stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pour in about ½ to 1 cup of vegetable broth. Then add those two cans of drained butter beans into the mix. Let everything cook together uncovered on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while warming up the beans.

Step 3: Finish It Off

Once those five minutes are up, take your pan off the heat. Fold in one cup of chopped fresh spinach until it wilts down nicely—this not only adds color but also nutrients! Finally, stir in one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of grated parmesan along with two tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Give everything a good mix and enjoy this creamy delight warm over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread.

Now you’re ready to serve up your delicious Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)! Enjoy every mouthful—you deserve it!

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

Making the perfect Marry Me Butter Beans is all about the little details, and these tips will help elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will bring out the flavors in this dish, making it taste homemade and vibrant.

• Adjust the spice level: If you love a bit more heat, feel free to add extra crushed red pepper flakes. Spice can enhance the overall flavor profile and make every bite exciting.

• Experiment with herbs: While basil is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to try other herbs like thyme or parsley. Each herb brings its own unique flavor that can customize your dish.

• Add protein options: For those looking for a heartier meal, consider adding crispy tofu or chickpeas. These options not only boost nutrition but also make the dish more filling.

• Don’t skip the crusty bread: Serving this dish with a side of crusty bread is essential! It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce and adds a delightful texture contrast.

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

Presenting your Marry Me Butter Beans beautifully can turn an everyday meal into something special. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of whole basil leaves adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

• Shredded parmesan: A light dusting of shredded parmesan on top just before serving gives an extra touch of richness and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop of sauce.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as zucchini or bell peppers, provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to the creamy beans.

• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the beans.

• Quinoa or rice: A bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice makes for an excellent base, soaking up all that scrumptious sauce while adding healthy grains to your meal.

Enjoy crafting your Marry Me Butter Beans! This delightful dish is sure to warm hearts (and stomachs) alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re getting ready for a busy week or planning an event, it stores wonderfully and reheats well, making it a go-to comfort food.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the butter beans completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave in a microwave-safe bowl.

FAQs

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

Can I customize my Marry Me Butter Beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like kale or zucchini. You can also substitute crispy tofu for an extra protein kick!

How do I make Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. The flavor will still be rich and delightful!

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

These butter beans pair beautifully with crusty bread, over rice, or tossed with pasta. You can also serve them as a hearty side dish alongside your favorite proteins.

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

This dish is quick to whip up, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) recipe as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Happy cooking!