Name: "Marry Me" Butter Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option); 2 (15 oz) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: chopped basil or parsley for garnish

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“Marry Me” Butter Beans is a rich, comforting one-skillet dish made with tender butter beans gently simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. Infused with the deep flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes, and finished with fresh spinach for balance, this vegetarian (and optionally vegan) meal is both hearty and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish so satisfying, it just might inspire a marriage proposal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines bold, savory ingredients into a wholesome and nourishing meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests. The butter beans offer plant-based protein, while the tomato cream sauce delivers luxurious flavor and texture. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires just one skillet, and pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a romantic dinner idea, this dish has you covered.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
2 (15 oz) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Add the drained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then pour in the cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the butter beans, season with salt and black pepper, and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside crusty bread, pasta, or rice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegan Version: Use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative in place of heavy cream.
Add Protein: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu for an extra protein boost.
Extra Greens: Swap or add kale, Swiss chard, or arugula instead of spinach.
Spicier Flavor: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Finish: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
Microwaving is also acceptable for quick reheating, but stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce and spinach, which may change texture.

FAQs

What are butter beans?

Butter beans are a large, creamy variety of lima beans known for their soft texture and mild flavor, perfect for absorbing rich sauces.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you must soak and cook them first. Be sure they’re fully tender before adding to the sauce.

Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, simply use coconut cream or another plant-based alternative instead of heavy cream.

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated, sweet-savory flavor. You can omit them, but the taste will be less complex.

What can I serve this with?

Crusty bread, rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes pair well with the rich sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well. Prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

Can I add meat to this dish?

If desired, add cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or pancetta for a heartier meal.

Is this spicy?

It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your taste.

What herbs work best for garnish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme add a lovely finishing touch and a burst of color.

Conclusion

“Marry Me” Butter Beans is a dish that delivers on both taste and comfort, offering a rich, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special someone, this creamy, savory skillet meal is sure to leave a lasting impression. Serve it with your favorite side and enjoy a cozy, flavorful dinner any night of the week.

“Marry Me” Butter Beans

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A creamy, savory one-skillet dish with tender butter beans simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce, flavored with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach—so good, you might just propose.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Add drained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then pour in the cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add butter beans, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5–7 minutes until beans are heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread, pasta, or rice.