Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

With Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce), you’ll find a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table in just 15 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or whenever you crave something warm and hearty. The creamy texture of the butter beans combined with our signature sauce makes it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy days.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy Tuscan sauce pairs beautifully with the butter beans for a rich taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute spinach with kale or add crispy tofu for different variations.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome meal that satisfies.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfectly portioned for leftovers or easy reheating during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, here are some essential tools that will help you prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan or pot: Essential for cooking ingredients evenly and allowing enough space to stir everything together without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly while ensuring no scratches on your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements for perfect flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Flavor 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 Main Dish

• 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
• 1 cup heavy cream (can sub half-and-half, 236 mL)
• ½ cup grated parmesan (50 g)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

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

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Heat 2 Tbsp unsalted butter in a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat. Add:
– 4 cloves minced garlic,
– ½ tsp each of salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika,
– ¼ tsp ground black pepper.

Cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Add Fillings

Stir in:
– ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes,
– ½ to 1 cup vegetable broth,
– 2 cans of butter beans.

Continue cooking on medium heat uncovered for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Remove from heat. Stir in:
– 1 cup chopped fresh spinach until wilted,
– then mix in 1 cup heavy cream,
– followed by ½ cup grated parmesan,
– and finally add 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil.

Serve warm alongside crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta. Enjoy your comforting meal!

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

Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light appetizer, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair these butter beans with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious sauce. A rustic baguette works wonderfully.

Over Rice

• Serve the creamy butter beans over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice absorbs the flavors and adds an extra layer of texture to your meal.

With Pasta

• Toss the buttery beans with your favorite pasta. This combination makes for a filling and comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your serving with extra chopped fresh basil or parsley. This not only enhances presentation but also adds a fresh flavor burst.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the Marry Me Butter Beans on their own as a hearty vegetarian main course. It’s rich and satisfying enough to be enjoyed solo.

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

To ensure your Marry Me Butter Beans turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried ones.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Experiment with greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different textures and tastes.
• Control creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, replace half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or use half-and-half.
• Add protein: For more substance, consider adding cooked chicken or crispy tofu alongside the butter beans.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Butter Beans can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, making it great for dipping.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the butter beans.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A lemony quinoa salad brings freshness and protein; it’s also gluten-free!
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy beans.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and vibrant color to your plate while being a healthy choice.
7. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make this meal even more comforting and satisfying.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a fun twist and is perfect for summer gatherings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the flavor. Always choose fresh vegetables and quality butter for the best results.
• Skipping the Soaking Step: If you’re using dried beans instead of canned, soaking them overnight is crucial. This helps in cooking them evenly and reduces cooking time.
• Overcooking the Spinach: Adding spinach too early can make it mushy. Stir it in just until wilted for better texture and color.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Everyone’s taste is different. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings like salt and spices according to your preference.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Quick meals can still benefit from proper attention. Take the time to sauté garlic until fragrant for a deeper flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce).

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

How can I customize Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

Feel free to add vegetables like kale or zucchini, or proteins like crispy tofu or grilled chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the sauce.

Is Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with various ingredients like different greens or proteins. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and make it your own!