Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that can brighten up your busy weeknight meals, look no further! Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creamy butter beans combined with the delightful Tuscan sauce create a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone in your family will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a simple dinner for yourself. It’s versatile enough to allow for different variations, making it an instant favorite among those who crave comfort food without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different greens or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! For this recipe, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce to create something truly special.

For the Sauce

• 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 Finish

• 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 Marry Me Butter Beans is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add Protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas for added protein and texture.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add in minced garlic along with salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper. Sauté everything for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is essential because it builds the flavorful foundation of your sauce!

Step 2: Add Fillings

Next, stir in the roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with vegetable broth and drained butter beans. Continue cooking over medium heat without covering for about 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while warming up those tender beans!

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Remove your pan from heat and stir in fresh spinach until it’s wilted. Then add heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix everything together until well combined. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or over rice or pasta for an extra satisfying meal.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)! Each bite will surely make you come back for seconds!

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

Creating the perfect Marry Me Butter Beans is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach make a noticeable difference in flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Fresh ingredients not only elevate the flavors but also add a vibrant color to your meal.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of vegetable broth or allow the dish to simmer a bit longer. This tip helps you achieve your desired texture, making each bite more satisfying.
• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard. These alternatives provide different textures and tastes, allowing you to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the parmesan cheese for a plant-based version. This adjustment keeps the dish creamy while accommodating vegan diets without compromising on taste.
• Add Protein Options: Consider mixing in crispy tofu or chickpeas for an extra protein boost. This addition transforms the butter beans into a heartier meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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

Once your Marry Me Butter Beans are ready, it’s time to present them in style! This dish is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Parmesan Crumbles: For those who enjoy cheese, topping with extra grated parmesan enhances richness and flavor.
• Chili Flakes: A dash of chili flakes not only adds heat but also gives your dish an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious creamy sauce. It adds texture and makes for an enjoyable dining experience.
• Simple Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich butter beans.
• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and garlic provide both color and nutrition, making them an excellent accompaniment.
• Pasta: Serve over al dente pasta such as penne or spaghetti for a filling meal. The buttery sauce clings perfectly to pasta shapes, making every bite delightful.

These tips will help you elevate your dining experience with Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). Enjoy this comforting dish, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a wonderful option for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare it in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep it covered to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

• Portion the butter beans into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different beans for Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

Absolutely! While butter beans give this dish a creamy texture, you can use other canned beans like cannellini or navy beans if you prefer.

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

This delightful dish comes together quickly in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner idea!

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

These butter beans pair wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite sides!

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! You can include veggies like kale or bell peppers to enhance both nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this heartwarming dish as much as I do! Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is not just quick and easy; it’s also flexible enough to adapt to your taste. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy dinner alone or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!