Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that comes together in a flash, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The creamy butter beans paired with our beloved Marry Me sauce create an irresistible combination that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s so quick to make – you can whip it up in just 15 minutes!

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish. And the best part? There’s room to get creative! Swap in your favorite greens or add some crispy tofu for an extra protein boost. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Creamy and flavorful, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these butter beans are both nourishing and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep; just reheat and enjoy throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking such a joy! Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable 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 substitute 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 experiment and make it your own:

• Swap the greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Add protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas for an added protein kick that complements the beans perfectly.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Change the cheese: Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan twist without sacrificing flavor.

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

Step 1: Flavor Base

Start by heating your unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic along with salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook these aromatic ingredients for about 2 minutes. Sautéing the garlic until it’s fragrant sets the stage for all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Fillings

Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and your choice of vegetable broth alongside those lovely butter beans. Let everything cook uncovered on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to combine while warming the beans through – so comforting!

Step 3: Finish

Remove your pan from heat and fold in the chopped spinach until it’s wilted. Then stir in that rich heavy cream along with grated parmesan and fresh basil. This final mix gives your dish its signature creamy texture and vibrant taste. Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice – trust me, you’ll want every last drop!

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

Making this delicious dish is a breeze, and with these tips, you can elevate your cooking experience even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach enhance the flavors beautifully, bringing a vibrant taste to the creamy sauce that dried or pre-packaged options simply can’t match.

• Adjust the heat: If you love a little kick, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes. This adds depth to the dish and makes it more exciting for those who enjoy spicy flavors.

• Experiment with cream alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. This not only reduces calories but also gives a unique twist to the flavor profile.

• Add protein: Incorporating crispy tofu or chickpeas into the mix can make this dish more filling while maintaining its vegetarian appeal. Plus, they pair well with the creamy sauce!

• Don’t skimp on herbs: Fresh basil is key! It not only provides a burst of freshness but also rounds out the richness of the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.

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

This dish is not just about great taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some thoughtful ideas on how to serve your Marry Me Butter Beans.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal note that brightens up the richness of the sauce.
• Crushed red pepper: For those who love heat, offering some extra crushed red pepper on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.
• Zest of lemon: A light dusting of lemon zest right before serving introduces a refreshing citrus note that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. Its crunchy exterior and soft inside make it irresistible!

• Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of steamed broccoli complements the rich flavors of the butter beans while adding nutritional value and a pop of color to your plate.

• Quinoa Salad: Tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette, quinoa salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the dish. It’s also packed with protein!

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection can add both flavor and nutrition. The caramelized sweetness from roasting enhances their natural flavors, making them an excellent accompaniment.

Now you’re all set to impress family and friends with your Marry Me Butter Beans! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes amazing but also stores well, making it a great choice for busy weekdays. Let’s dive into how you can store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter beans to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled butter beans into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

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?

Absolutely! While butter beans give this dish a creamy texture, feel free to experiment with other canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas for a unique twist.

What makes Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) so special?

This recipe combines creamy butter beans with a flavorful Tuscan sauce that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in bowl form!

How can I make this dish lighter while keeping the creamy sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese used. Adding more vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, can also lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, try using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. They will add a deliciously different flavor profile to your dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) as much as I do! This dish is not just quick and easy; it’s filled with warmth and love that brings everyone together at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your variations with me!

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