Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is an irresistible dish that combines creamy textures and rich flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. This one-pan recipe showcases tender butter beans simmered in a delicious sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream. In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish that impresses family and friends alike, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a hearty main course or as a side dish that complements various meals.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: With simple substitutions, this recipe can easily cater to vegan diets without sacrificing taste.
- One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this all-in-one meal that cooks in a single pan.
Tools and Preparation
To make Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, gather your essential kitchen tools. These items will help you prepare the dish effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and easy stirring of ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of garlic, onions, and sun-dried tomatoes for optimal flavor release.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors in the creamy sauce.

Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
For the Beans
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans (rinsed and drained)
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast for a vegan version)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet.
– Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once the aromatics are ready:
– Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
– Cook for another 2 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth:
– Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
– Add the heavy cream (or coconut cream), stirring well to combine.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter Beans
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient:
– Gently fold in the rinsed butter beans.
– Let everything simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season your dish:
– Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
– Mix well until everything is combined. Garnish with fresh basil before serving!
Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans as a delightful main course or side dish!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal that adds protein and flavor.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serve the creamy beans over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome, satisfying dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Enjoy with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and make the meal more filling.
As a Side Dish
- Complement your favorite roasted vegetables or salads, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Topped with Extra Basil
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
To achieve the ultimate Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is as flavorful and creamy as possible.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the dish’s flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
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Adjust the Creaminess: For a richer taste, opt for heavy cream; for a lighter version, use coconut cream or plant-based alternatives.
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Control the Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; start with less if you’re unsure!
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Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan adds depth, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy for vegan options.
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Let it Simmer: Allow the butter beans to simmer longer for better absorption of flavors and creaminess in the sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options to complement your meal:
-
Garlic Roasted Vegetables
A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized; perfect for adding texture and nutrition. -
Simple Green Salad
Fresh greens drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy beans. -
Couscous Salad
Fluffy couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley offers a light yet satisfying accompaniment. -
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes can complement the rich sauce of the butter beans beautifully. -
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings vibrant color and nutrients to balance out the richness of your main dish. -
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and are packed with vitamins; they pair well with creamy sauces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.
- Wrong Bean Preparation: Using unprocessed butter beans can lead to a tough texture. Always rinse and drain canned butter beans for the best results.
- Overcooking Garlic: Burning garlic can add bitterness to your dish. Sauté it just until fragrant, then add other ingredients immediately.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can result in bland flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Subpar ingredients can affect the overall taste. Invest in good-quality sun-dried tomatoes and cream for richer flavors.
- Ignoring Garnish: Skipping fresh basil can lessen the dish’s appeal. Always garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans.
What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan version of Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans.
How do I adjust the spice level?
To customize the heat in Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, simply add more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, while butter beans are recommended, you can substitute them with other beans like cannellini or chickpeas if desired.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is not only quick to prepare but also rich in flavor, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding veggies or adjusting spices to suit your tastes. Try this versatile dish today!
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. This one-pan wonder features tender butter beans simmered in a luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that impresses both family and friends, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering. Not only is this dish quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to be served as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish. With simple substitutions, this recipe can cater to vegan diets without sacrificing taste. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Tuscany right at your dining table!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and let simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream).
- Gently fold in rinsed butter beans and simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
