Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce is a cozy, crave-worthy dish that turns simple pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal. Butter beans are simmered in a rich, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and a splash of cream—creating a silky, savory sauce that clings to every bite. Finished with fresh spinach, herbs, and a hint of lemon, this one-skillet wonder is pure comfort food.
I first made this dish on a night when I wanted something fuss-free yet full of flavor—and it delivered big time. The butter beans were tender and hearty, the sauce was luxuriously creamy, and the sun-dried tomatoes brought just the right amount of tang. It felt indulgent but wholesome, like a warm hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re serving it for a quiet dinner, a date night, or as a show-stopping side dish, this Tuscan-inspired recipe is sure to win hearts. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights and special enough for when you want to impress.
Why You’ll Love Marry Me Butter Beans
- Creamy & Comforting: The sauce is silky, rich, and full of flavor.
- Meatless but Hearty: Butter beans give it a satisfying, protein-rich bite.
- Fast & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes!
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Serve it with bread, pasta, rice, or even on its own.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap out cream, or stir in protein.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Just check your ingredient labels.
- Easy to Make Vegan: Swap dairy for plant-based alternatives.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From cozy nights in to dinner parties.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra Parmesan
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Sauce
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and stir in the cream and Parmesan until smooth. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Butter Beans
Gently fold in the butter beans and let simmer for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Finish the Dish
Add spinach and stir until wilted. Finish with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh basil, more Parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans
- Spoon over crusty bread to soak up every drop.
- Serve on pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
- Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Enjoy as a dip with warm pita or crackers.
- Use as a side dish with roasted vegetables or meats.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy.
- Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheesy: Stir in mozzarella for extra richness.
- Smoky: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
- Mediterranean: Add olives and crumbled feta.
- Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I use canned butter beans?
Yes, canned beans are convenient and perfect for this recipe. Just rinse and drain them well.
Why is it called “Marry Me” Butter Beans?
This style of recipe is so flavorful and comforting that people joke it’s “marriage proposal-worthy”—hence the name!
Is this gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure your broth and sun-dried tomatoes are certified gluten-free.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! It’s even better the next day.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce is the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy in every bite. It’s easy to make, deeply flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a new meatless main or a dreamy side dish, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version! Tag me on Instagram and let me know how you made it your own.