Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

If you’re looking for a quick and cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ll absolutely love these Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). This dish is my go-to when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and deliciously rich flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes!

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your taste or what you have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying it with crusty bread or over rice, each bite promises to be a delightful experience. Trust me, once you try these butter beans, you’ll want to make them part of your regular meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Creamy and flavorful, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Swap in your favorite greens or proteins to customize it each time you make it.
• Comforting flavor: The combination of buttery beans and creamy sauce will warm your soul.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance for an effortless weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You might already have some of these items in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up those delicious Marry Me Butter Beans:

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 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 mix things up based on what you enjoy or have available.

• Swap the greens: Try using kale instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor.
• Add protein: Toss in some crispy tofu or chickpeas for added heartiness.
• Make it spicy: If you love a kick, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

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

Step 1: Create the Flavor Base

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic along with salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is crucial because it infuses the dish with aromatic flavors right from the start!

Step 2: Add Fillings

Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes along with your choice of vegetable broth and the drained butter beans. Let everything cook uncovered on medium heat for around 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping those tasty beans creamy and tender.

Step 3: Finish with Creamy Goodness

Remove the pan from heat once everything is heated through. Fold in the chopped spinach until it’s wilted—this adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition! Then stir in heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Mix until combined and creamy. Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside pasta for an unforgettable meal!

Enjoy every delicious bite of these Marry Me Butter Beans!

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

Creating the perfect Marry Me Butter Beans is all about those little details that make a big difference!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance the flavor profile, making your dish more vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth for a less rich but equally tasty sauce.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste preferences—try adding thyme or basil for extra flavor depth!
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding crispy tofu or chickpeas. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds an interesting texture.
• Serve immediately: These beans are best enjoyed right after cooking. The flavors are at their peak when served warm, so be sure to dig in right away!

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

Presenting Marry Me Butter Beans in an inviting way can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this creamy concoction.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a lovely pop of color and enhances the Italian flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated parmesan on top brings an additional savory note to each bite.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of fresh black pepper not only add texture but also give a subtle spicy kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce and makes for a comforting addition to your meal.
• Mediterranean quinoa salad: This refreshing salad, made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, balances out the richness of the butter beans beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers complement the dish’s flavors while offering a healthy side option.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous absorbs the sauce well and provides a delightful base to enjoy alongside the butter beans.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Marry Me Butter Beans will be not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making your busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, keep the butter beans separate from any sides until ready to eat.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it’s too thick.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl at medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a vegan version.

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

These creamy butter beans pair wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. You can also enjoy them as a side dish alongside your favorite protein!

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

This recipe is super quick! It only takes about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this comforting and creamy Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce). It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Enjoy making this delightful dish and don’t forget to share your variations! I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own!