Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

With creamy butter beans and our staple Marry Me sauce, these Marry Me Butter Beans are the perfect quick comfort food. This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, thanks to the use of pre-cooked beans. Enjoy this flavorful recipe for a cozy family dinner or a delightful appetizer that impresses guests. Plus, you can explore countless variations by adding ingredients like kale or crispy tofu alongside the butter beans!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a robust and savory sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm with crusty bread, over rice, or mixed with pasta for endless meal options.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber and nutrients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Easily Adaptable: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan or pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing without scratching your cookware and ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 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
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (roughly chopped)
• ½ to 1 cup vegetable broth (120 to 236 mL)

For the Butter Beans

• 2 15-oz cans butter beans (aka lima beans, drained, 425 g cans)
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach

For the Creamy Finish

• 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: Create the Flavor Base

Start by heating the unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
1. Add minced garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper.
2. Cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Add Fillings

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes along with vegetable broth and drained butter beans.
1. Continue to cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes without covering the pan.

Step 3: Finish with Creaminess

Remove the pan from heat after cooking.
1. Stir in chopped fresh spinach until it wilts.
2. Mix in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
3. Finally, fold in chopped fresh basil before serving warm with your preferred side.

This comforting dish will surely become a favorite in your home! Enjoy your Marry Me Butter Beans!

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

Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the creamy sauce by dipping slices of fresh crusty bread. The bread absorbs the flavors beautifully, making it a satisfying combination.

Over Rice

• Serve the butter beans over a bed of fluffy rice. This adds heartiness to the dish and complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

With Pasta

• Toss the butter beans with your favorite pasta for a filling main course. The sauce clings to the pasta, creating a deliciously comforting meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or turkey. The rich flavors of the sauce enhance any protein, making for a well-rounded plate.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create wraps filled with Marry Me Butter Beans and fresh greens. It’s a fun and portable way to enjoy this dish.

Topped with Crispy Tofu

• For added texture, top with crispy tofu cubes. This adds protein and a delightful crunch to each bite while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

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

Perfecting your Marry Me Butter Beans is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak spices according to your taste preference. More red pepper flakes can add heat, while additional herbs can boost freshness.
• Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a different twist.
• Cook Thoroughly: Make sure not to rush the cooking process; allowing the beans to simmer helps meld flavors together nicely.
• Experiment with Greens: While spinach is delightful, kale or Swiss chard can also be used for variation and added nutrients.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also makes your dish visually appealing. Consider adding parsley or arugula as alternatives.

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

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread that complements the creamy texture of the beans perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients alongside the main dish.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
4. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes brings an earthy balance to the meal.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears pair beautifully, adding both flavor and visual appeal to your plate.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for an easy yet sophisticated side option that absorbs sauce well.
7. Sautéed Zucchini: Quick sautéed zucchini adds a lovely crunch and is quick to prepare alongside your main dish.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory flavor of the butter beans, making for an exciting combination.

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 to watch out for:

• Using uncooked beans: Always use pre-cooked or canned butter beans. This saves time and ensures even cooking.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Cook it just until fragrant to maintain its flavor and avoid bitterness.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish as you go! Adjust salt and spices based on your preferences and the broth used.
• Skipping the fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and basil add vibrant flavors. Don’t skip these for dried alternatives, as they elevate the dish.
• Ignoring serving suggestions: This dish pairs well with bread, rice, or pasta. Experiment with different sides to enhance your meal.
• Not letting it rest: Allow the dish to sit briefly after cooking. This helps meld the flavors together for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What are Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)?

Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is a comforting dish featuring creamy butter beans cooked in a flavorful Tuscan-inspired sauce.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option while still achieving a creamy texture.

How can I customize my Marry Me Butter Beans?

Feel free to add vegetables like kale or zucchini, or protein options such as crispy tofu or chicken for added variety.

What should I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside pasta. Choose what best suits your taste!

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time is about 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal option.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce) is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to match your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to impress!