Name: Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can of Butter Beans; 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 Onion, diced; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for vegan); 1 cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth; 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free); Fresh Basil, chopped; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional)

If you’re on the hunt for a rich and comforting meal that feels both elegant and easy to prepare, look no further than Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans. This delightful dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean with its creamy texture and robust flavors, guaranteed to make anyone fall head over heels! Rumor has it, this classic ‘marry me’ dish is so good that it might just inspire a life-changing proposal from your loved one.

This recipe transforms humble butter beans into a culinary masterpiece, all while keeping preparation simple and achievable. Within just 30 minutes, you can indulge in creamy butter beans bathed in a luxurious sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream, topped with fresh basil. Impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen! Cheers to vibrant flavors and convenience!

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans

One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or veggie option.
Customizable: Switch it up with proteins like chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To set yourself up for success while crafting this amazing dish, start by prepping your kitchen and gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need a large skillet (preferably non-stick) for sautéing and simmering, plus a wooden spoon for mixing. A cutting board and chef’s knife will be essential for chopping your onion and garlic, while a measuring cup will help for the broth and cream.

Make sure to have all your ingredients within reach. Rinse the canned butter beans to remove excess sodium, and chop any fresh ingredients like basil and onion beforehand. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Ingredients

1 can of Butter Beans
1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 Onion, diced
1/2 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for vegan)
1 cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
Fresh Basil, chopped
2 tbsp Olive Oil
Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened. This aromatic base adds depth and flavor to your dish, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, it’s time to enhance those flavors! Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for 1–2 minutes. This helps to activate their tangy and savory essence. After that, pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats up, stir in the heavy cream for that rich, velvety sauce that everyone will love.

Step 3: Add the Butter Beans

Now, gently fold in the rinsed butter beans, ensuring they are well-coated with the delicious sauce. Allow them to simmer for 5–7 minutes, giving the beans time to absorb all those sumptuous flavors. The contrast of creamy sauce and tender butter beans is simply irresistible!

Step 4: Thicken & Season

As your dish nears completion, stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce further. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to adjust with a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a touch of heat!

Step 5: Finish & Garnish

Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish before serving. This not only infuses a refreshing aroma but also enhances the visual appeal of your meal. Your Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are now ready to wow your taste buds!

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Using fresh beans? Soak them overnight and cook thoroughly before starting.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the butter beans over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Pair with crusty bread for dipping or mopping up that delicious sauce.

Tips

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and cheese with nutritional yeast.
Enhance the flavors further by allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 12 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh butter beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh butter beans, be sure to soak and cook them thoroughly before incorporating them into the dish.

What can I serve with Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

Is there a gluten-free version?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your broth is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful way to embrace the comforts of Mediterranean cuisine. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and quick preparation time, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or seeking a comforting meal for your family, this recipe checks all the boxes. Don’t forget to try variations and make this dish your own! Share your love for Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans in the comments below, and inspire others to take their tastebuds on a flavorful journey!