Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Are you ready for a dish that might just make you fall in love all over again? Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is not only a delightful culinary creation but also a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Imagine creamy butter beans melded with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and rich heavy cream, all topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even when you simply want to indulge in a taste of Italy at home.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why make Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans? The answer is simple: it’s an effortless yet impressive recipe that’s packed with flavor. This dish is budget-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to prepare a meal without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s versatile—whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a sumptuous side, it checks all the boxes!
"Made this for dinner last night, and it was a hit! Creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Definitely going into our regular rotation!"
The cooking process explained
This recipe beats the clock with its simple step-by-step process. In just a few moments, you’ll transform humble ingredients into a dish that’s rich and satisfying. You begin with some sautéing, add cream and cheese for decadence, and finish with a few minutes of simmering. It’s that straightforward! Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into how this wonderful dish comes together.
What you’ll need
To make Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, you’ll require the following ingredients:
- 2 cups butter beans, cooked
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to switch up the Parmesan with vegan cheese for a dairy-free touch or throw in some spinach for an added pop of color and nutrition!
Step-by-step instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to make this delicious dish:
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked butter beans, grated Parmesan, and dried Italian herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans shines as a main dish, but it also makes an excellent side alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad. Consider serving it in pasta bowls, drizzled with a bit of extra olive oil, and paired with crusty Italian bread for sopping up the creamy goodness.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dish can also be frozen for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate this dish even further, consider roasting some vegetables—think bell peppers or zucchini—and mixing them in for an added flavor dimension. Using freshly made sun-dried tomatoes can also enhance the taste profile. When grating your Parmesan, opt for fresh rather than pre-packaged for maximum flavor!
Creative twists
This recipe is incredibly flexible! You might try adding a bit of lemon zest for a zingy freshness, or swapping in different herbs like thyme for a unique twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some cooked sausage or chorizo for a heartier version.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to make Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?
A: This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Q: Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to soak and cook them before using them in the recipe.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it a great option for weekly meal prep.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.
With its rich flavors and comforting textures, Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is a dish that will truly enchant you and your loved ones. Give it a try, and you might just find it love at first bite!
Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butter beans, cooked
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked butter beans, grated Parmesan, and dried Italian herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
