Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe – 30-Minute Plant-Based Dinner
These Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are rich, comforting, and ready in just 30 minutes! Simmered in a luscious sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and cream, this plant-based dish is packed with flavor and protein. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a hearty side, it’s a cozy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights or romantic dinners. Vegan-friendly options included!
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Can opener (if using canned beans)
Ingredients
- 2 cans butter beans (drained and rinsed) or 3 cups cooked from dry
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan or 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 cups spinach or chopped kale
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Optional garnish: fresh basil, lemon zest, chili oil
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes & Herbs Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, basil, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to release flavors.
- Add Beans & Broth Add butter beans and vegetable broth. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.
- Add Cream & Cheese Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream and Parmesan (or nutritional yeast). Simmer for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Fold in Greens & Season Add spinach or kale and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve & Garnish Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, lemon zest, or chili oil. Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or rice.
Notes
- Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve flavor.
- Simmer gently to avoid breaking the beans.
- Use a wide skillet for faster sauce reduction.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after cooking.
- Let rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Make vegan by using coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
- Add a splash of white wine before broth for extra depth.