Prepare to be swept off your feet by a dish so utterly captivating, it’s affectionately known as ‘Marry Me’. Our Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans recipe delivers an irresistible blend of tender butter beans enveloped in a rich, velvety tomato-cream sauce. This easy-to-make, vegetarian delight is destined to become a cherished favorite, perfect for any occasion. Get ready to fall in love with every spoonful.
Why These Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans Will Win Your Heart
- Irresistible Comfort: Experience ultimate comfort with tender butter beans in a deeply flavorful, creamy tomato sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of Mediterranean and American influences that truly satisfies.
- Effortless & Quick: Ready in under an hour, this one-skillet wonder is perfect for busy evenings when you crave a homemade, satisfying meal without the fuss.
- Versatile Vegetarian Delight: Whether served as a hearty vegetarian main or a luxurious side, these Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans are packed with wholesome goodness and adapt beautifully.
Key Ingredients for Your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans
Achieving perfect Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans involves selecting quality ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish shine:
- Butter Beans: The star! Use canned, thoroughly rinsed and drained butter beans. Their inherent creaminess is crucial. Large cannellini beans can substitute, but butter beans offer the best texture.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned, undrained diced tomatoes form the flavorful base of our sauce, adding liquid and robust tomato essence.
- Heavy Cream: Non-negotiable for that signature “creamy” texture. Avoid lighter alternatives to maintain richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly, providing essential salty, umami notes. Skip pre-grated for superior results.
- Aromatics: Freshly diced onion and minced garlic are foundational flavors. Cook onion until soft for a sweet base.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they add a lovely, subtle warmth. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Fresh Basil: A final garnish brightens the dish, adding beautiful color and aromatic finish to your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans.
Crafting Your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a truly unforgettable dish of Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans.
Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for just one more minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Simmer the Beans and Sauce
Pour in undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed and drained butter beans, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken, making the butter beans wonderfully tender.
Finish with Creamy Perfection
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and achieves its signature creamy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Before serving, garnish generously with fresh chopped basil, adding a vibrant touch and fresh aroma to your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans.
Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), rinsed and drained butter beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.
Notes
Enhance Your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans: Tips & Creative Variations
Customize your Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans with these helpful tips and delicious variations:
- Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last few minutes for extra nutrition and color.
- Protein Boost: Make it heartier by adding cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or crispy bacon. Incorporate pre-cooked proteins at the final step to warm through.
- Spice Adjustment: Increase or decrease red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference, or omit them for a milder flavor.
- A Splash of Wine: For added depth, deglaze the pan with ¼ cup white wine after cooking aromatics, letting it reduce before adding tomatoes.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth or plant milk if needed. Freezing is not recommended for cream-based sauces.
Serving Ideas for Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans
These versatile Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: The rich, creamy sauce is perfect for dipping a warm baguette or focaccia.
- Over Grains: Serve over fluffy rice, quinoa, or creamy polenta for a complete meal.
- As a Side: A luxurious side dish for roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or grilled meats.
- Fresh Salad: Complement the richness with a light, crisp green salad and a simple vinaigrette.
- With Pasta: Toss the sauce and beans with short pasta like ditalini for a quick, comforting pasta dish. For another easy and creamy pasta option, explore our Ultimate One Pot Ditalini Pasta: Your Quick & Creamy Weeknight Italian Delight.
Discover the Magic of Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans
Our Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans recipe truly lives up to its name, promising love at first bite. This dish offers a perfect harmony of tender beans, a rich, savory tomato-cream sauce, and heartwarming comfort, all in an easy-to-prepare package. Whether you’re seeking a new weeknight favorite, a crowd-pleasing vegetarian option, or simply a meal that feels like a warm embrace, this recipe delivers. Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and experience the irresistible charm of these incredible butter beans. And for more delightful and creamy vegetarian meals, don’t miss our Creamy Dumpling Bake Coconut Milk: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal!
What are butter beans?
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are large, flat, creamy-textured beans. They are rich in protein, fiber, and various micronutrients, making them a healthy and versatile ingredient.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute instead of regular Parmesan cheese.
What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans?
This dish is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, grilled chicken or fish, or even served over rice or pasta for a more substantial meal.