Craving a luscious, comforting dish with bold Mediterranean flavor? Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are here to sweep you off your feet. This rich and savory one-pan meal combines tender butter beans with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a silky cream sauce. It’s so good, it’s said to inspire marriage proposals—hence the name!
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, this dish is the perfect mix of ease, elegance, and unforgettable flavor.
What Makes It So Special
- Ready in 30 Minutes – Minimal prep and quick cook time make this a go-to weeknight dinner.
- Rich & Creamy Flavor – The velvety sauce clings to every bean, infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs.
- Versatile – Serve it as a main, side, or over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
- Customizable – Easily make it vegetarian or vegan with a few simple swaps.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan version)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans butter beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. - Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1–2 minutes to release their flavor. - Create the Sauce
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the cream until fully combined and heated through. - Add the Butter Beans
Gently fold in the butter beans. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the beans to absorb the creamy flavor. - Thicken and Season
Add Parmesan (or nutritional yeast) and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. - Finish with Fresh Herbs
Turn off the heat and stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with extra basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty main dish.
- Pair with crusty sourdough or focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Add a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for extra balance.
- Top with grilled chicken or crispy tofu for added protein.
Tips & Variations
- Vegan Version: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use Dried Beans: Soak and cook dried butter beans in advance for a more traditional texture.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 servings
- Course: Main Course / Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
- Calories: ~350 per serving
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Protein: ~12g
Why You’ll Love It
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are the kind of dish that feels luxurious without being complicated. The flavor is bold and satisfying, while the ingredients are humble and pantry-friendly. Whether you’re a longtime butter bean lover or just discovering their magic, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.