Name: Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans for Cozy Nights In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) butter beans (drained); 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 medium shallot (finely chopped); 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added richness); ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option); 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale for a sturdier green); ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated, optional); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; to taste salt; to taste pepper

As I stirred the creamy blend of butter and spices, a wave of warmth enveloped me, reminiscent of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen with loved ones. This recipe for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings comfort and joy right into your home. In just 30 minutes, you can create a luscious dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or serves as a delightful side to grilled meats. The best part? These butter beans not only offer a rich, creamy texture, but they’re also packed with nutrients and plant-based protein, making them a wholesome choice for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience. Ready to transform your dinner table into a Tuscan escape? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Butter Beans

Warm, Cozy Vibes: Imagine a dish that wraps you in a layer of comfort with each bite—this recipe for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is that dish!

Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep, you can delight your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients, these butter beans are not just delicious but also a guilt-free choice.

Versatile Dish: Serve them as a side for grilled meats, toss them in salads, or enjoy them with crusty bread for a cozy meal.

Crowd-Pleaser: With their creamy texture and rich flavors, expect these beans to steal the spotlight at your dinner table.

Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans Ingredients

• Prepare to whip up a cozy dish!

Butter Beans – The star ingredient, offering a creamy texture and plant-based protein.
Olive Oil – Adds richness; use extra virgin for the best flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this essential!
Shallots – Sweet and mild flavor; can be swapped with yellow onion if needed.
Vegetable Broth – Provides a savory base; chicken broth works well for added richness.
Heavy Cream – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrancy and nutrients; feel free to use kale if you prefer a sturdier green.
Parmesan Cheese – A delightful finishing touch; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Italian Seasoning – A mix of herbs that brings a taste of Tuscany right to your table; customize it to your liking.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your taste.

These ingredients come together to create the delightful Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, making your meal an experience worth savoring!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and gather your ingredients. In the meantime, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help create a delightful texture on the beans as they cook, allowing them to soak up the flavorful ingredients that will follow.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely chopped shallot, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and soft. This step creates a beautiful aromatic base for your Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, add 1 can (15 oz) of drained butter beans to the skillet, along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Gently stir to combine the beans with the aromatic mixture. Allow the beans to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting them absorb the savory garlic and shallot flavors while warming through.

Step 4: Add Cream and Greens
Turn down the heat to low and pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts to a vibrant green. This step brings a nutritious and colorful element to your Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans.

Step 5: Season to Perfection
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, alongside salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything gently to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the dish. Allow the mixture to cook for another 1-2 minutes, enhancing the flavors before transferring it to your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Bake and Finish
Transfer the creamy bean mixture to the greased baking dish and top it with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This final baking step gives your Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans a luscious texture and richness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Serve your Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans warm as a delightful side or an indulgent main dish. Pair it with crusty bread or alongside grilled meats for a cozy meal that’ll surely impress your loved ones.

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make this dish truly your own and perfect for your cozy dinners!

Gluten-Free: Swap any flour-based sauces or thickeners with cornstarch or arrowroot for a gluten-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish without worries.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It still turns out creamy and delicious!
Add Protein: For an extra hearty meal, toss in grilled chicken or sausage slices. The savory additions make it a complete dinner option that’s sure to satisfy!
Spice It Up: If you love a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a warm, spicy twist that elevates the flavor profile and adds a kick.
Seasoning Variation: Customize your herb blend! Consider adding fresh basil or oregano to amplify that Tuscan flavor. The herb garden is your oyster with this versatile dish.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. These not only add nutrition but also enhance the dish’s flavor and texture, making every bite a surprise.
Creamy Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, use unsweetened almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of heavy cream.
Serving Styles: Instead of serving as a side, turn it into a gorgeous pasta sauce. Just toss it with cooked pasta for a quick and cozy meal reminiscent of Italian kitchens.

There you have it! These variations invite you to create a unique experience every time you make this comforting dish. For a complementary side, try it alongside my Garlic Butter Beef Cheeseburger Rollups for a filling meal that hits the spot!

Expert Tips for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and shallots elevates the dish. Dried or pre-minced options can lack the richness you want in your creamy butter beans.
Watch the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream slowly and stir to prevent it from curdling. This helps maintain the luscious texture essential for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans.
Perfect Bean Texture: Make sure to drain and rinse your butter beans well. This prevents excess starch from making the dish too thick or gummy.
Taste As You Go: Start with small amounts of salt and pepper, adjusting as you cook. This ensures the seasoning is just right for your personal taste.
Customize Flavor: Experiment with different herbs or add crushed red pepper for a hint of spice. Customizing flavors will make your creamy dish unique every time!

What to Serve with Classic Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Imagine indulging in the sweet, melty goodness of chocolate chip cookies while enjoying complementary dishes that elevate your dessert experience.

Milk: The classic pairing! A cold glass of milk enhances the sweetness, creating a nostalgic childhood moment.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, it combines beautifully with warm cookies, melting into delightful pools of flavor.
Fresh Berries: Juicy, tart berries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of cookies, brightening up each bite.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee balances the sugary notes, bringing a comforting richness to your cookie experience.
Chocolate Fondue: A decadent addition, dip your cookies into warm chocolate for an ultimate treat that’s sure to impress.
Nutty Granola: For a textural twist, enjoy cookies with a crunchy side of nutty granola, bringing a wholesome element to your dessert.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over cookies for an added layer of sweetness. This sticky, luxurious touch is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements your cookies when served with ice cream.

Whether for a cozy night in or a special gathering, these pairings will elevate your cookie experience to new heights!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans

Room Temperature: Enjoy these butter beans warm right out of the oven, but they should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure freshness.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the butter beans in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to serve.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your creamy Tuscan marry me butter beans again, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to keep them smooth and delicious.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire creamy mixture up to 3 days in advance—just sauté the aromatics, combine with the butter beans, cream, and spinach, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the dish’s rich texture, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply transfer everything to a baking dish, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. This prep-ahead option saves time while delivering just as delicious results!

Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans Recipe FAQs

What type of butter beans should I use for this recipe?
You should use canned butter beans for convenience, which are soft and creamy. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use dried butter beans, just make sure to soak them overnight and boil until tender before using.

How should I store leftovers of Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the beans cool completely before sealing them to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to help restore that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or broth to keep the dish smooth and creamy.

What if the cream in my dish curdles while cooking?
If this happens, don’t worry! It’s a common issue. To remedy it, remove the pan from the heat and vigorously stir to combine. You can also add a splash of warm broth or water, which helps to smooth out the texture. For next time, try to slowly incorporate the cream over lower heat.

Are there any dietary restrictions or alternatives I should consider?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream to make it dairy-free. For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan cheese entirely or use nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.