Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve stumbled upon a gem: Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). This dish is my go-to for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delectable. The creamy butter beans paired with a rich, savory sauce create a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for family gatherings or just a quiet night at home.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, thanks to using pre-cooked beans. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens with fresh spinach or even crispy tofu if you’re feeling adventurous! Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s make a dish that you’ll want to share with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and delicious flavors—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand; this dish adapts beautifully.
• Comfort Food Delight: The creamy sauce and hearty butter beans make it a warm hug on chilly nights.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce), we’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust ingredients based on your tastes or what’s available.

• Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your thing, kale works wonderfully as an alternative.
• Add protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Change up the cheese: Try using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option.
• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like your food with a kick!

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

Step 1: Flavor Base

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

Step 2: Fillings

Next, stir in roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes followed by your vegetable broth and the drained butter beans. Let everything cook uncovered over medium heat for about five minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Finish

Remove the pan from heat and fold in the chopped fresh spinach until wilted. Then stir in heavy cream along with grated parmesan and chopped fresh basil. This final mix creates that dreamy creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible! Serve warm alongside crusty bread or over rice or pasta for an unforgettable meal.

Enjoy every bite of these Marry Me Butter Beans—you might just fall in love!

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

Creating the perfect bowl of Marry Me Butter Beans is a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance the flavor, giving your dish that vibrant, homemade taste.
• Control the creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream or half-and-half to suit your preference; less cream will yield a lighter sauce, while more provides a richer texture.
• Add protein: For an extra boost, toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas. This addition makes the dish heartier and increases the protein content.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasoning! Adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or even some lemon zest can elevate the flavors even more.
• Let it sit: If you have time, allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

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

This delightful dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing! Here are a few ideas on how to present your Marry Me Butter Beans for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Chili flakes: A light dusting of chili flakes not only adds visual flair but also gives an extra kick to those who love heat.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers provide a healthy contrast and balance out the richness of the butter beans.
• Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers freshness and acidity, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving your butter beans over fluffy rice or quinoa creates a filling base that soaks up all that delicious sauce.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)! Enjoy every warm, creamy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is not only quick to prepare but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for later, ensuring that you always have a delicious meal ready to go.

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 any crusty bread separate to maintain its texture until serving.

Freezing

• Portion the butter beans into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) that might help you out!

Can I use different beans in this Marry Me Butter Beans recipe?

Yes! While butter beans are a delicious choice, you can substitute them with other canned beans such as cannellini or navy beans. Just be sure they’re cooked and drained before adding them to your dish.

How can I customize my Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility! Feel free to add chopped kale instead of spinach, toss in some crispy tofu for added protein, or even include seasonal vegetables to suit your taste.

Can I make Marry Me Butter Beans ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What should I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans?

These creamy butter beans pair wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. You can also enjoy them as a hearty side dish alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) as much as I do! This comforting dish brings warmth and flavor to any meal and is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Remember, cooking is all about joy and creativity—so feel free to put your own spin on it. Happy cooking!