Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 61 reviews

If you’re craving something that feels both comforting and fancy, you’ve got to try this Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe. It’s rich, packed with flavor, and so easy that you’ll want to whip it up on repeat. Seriously, this Tuscan-inspired dish combines buttery beans with a luscious cream sauce that’s spiked with garlic, sundried tomatoes, and kale—sounds like the perfect cozy meal, right? Stick around, and I’ll show you exactly how to nail it every time.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Combining butter beans with garlic, sundried tomatoes, and a special Tuscan blend creates a sauce that bursts with savory richness.
  • Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and parmesan melt together to coat everything beautifully, making it feel indulgent but still fresh thanks to lemon and kale.
  • Quick and Easy: You can have this on the table in about 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade and hearty.
  • Versatile Serving Options: From rice to garlic bread, it pairs effortlessly with your favorite sides to make a complete, satisfying meal.
Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans, Tuscan butter beans recipe, garlic sundried tomato beans, vegetarian creamy bean dish, easy Tuscan bean recipe - A red skillet filled with a thick orange creamy sauce containing white beans, green herb pieces, red cherry tomatoes, and darker brown sun-dried tomato strips. A wooden spatula is partly submerged on the right side of the skillet, stirring the sauce. To the left, there is a white plate with toasted garlic bread slices and another white plate with fresh green leafy salad. A beige cloth is placed under the skillet handle on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe plays its part in delivering the ultimate balance of creaminess, tang, and depth. Whether you’re picking butter beans or deciding on sundried tomatoes, these are my tried-and-true choices that make the magic happen.

Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans, Tuscan butter beans recipe, garlic sundried tomato beans, vegetarian creamy bean dish, easy Tuscan bean recipe - Flat lay of fresh butter beans in a simple white ceramic bowl, a few whole garlic cloves with clean skins, a small white bowl of organic sundried tomatoes, a small white bowl of rich organic tomato paste, a small white bowl of unsalted butter cubes, a small white bowl of freshly grated parmesan cheese, a small white bowl of chopped organic kale, a small white bowl of organic heavy cream, a small white bowl of organic vegetable stock, a small white bowl of clear white cooking wine, half a fresh lemon cut to show the juicy interior, and a small white bowl of coarse sea salt, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Butter Beans: I love canned ones for convenience, but soaked dry beans work great too—just give them plenty of time to soften for the best texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds a silky richness without overpowering flavors; plus, controlling salt lets you balance seasoning perfectly.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential here—it infuses the sauce with that comforting aroma you want in any Italian-inspired dish.
  • Sundried Tomatoes: Packed with concentrated sweetness and tang, they’re the secret umami weapon in this recipe—but roasted herb tomatoes are a tasty alternative if you prefer.
  • Tomato Paste: Gives body and a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce lovely.
  • Tuscan Marry Me Blend: This blend is a game-changer—you can buy it or make your own with a mix of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to capture traditional Tuscan flavors.
  • Sea Salt: Balances the dish and enhances all the natural flavors—don’t skip this.
  • Heavy Cream: The heart of the creamy texture—go organic or grass-fed if you want that extra depth.
  • Vegetable Stock: Adds savory notes without weighing things down; also a great way to keep this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
  • White Cooking Wine: Optional but highly recommended—it cuts through the richness and adds subtle acidity. No worries if you omit it; extra stock works in a pinch.
  • Lemon Juice: Brings a bright freshness that keeps this dish light despite the creaminess.
  • Kale: Adds color, texture, and nutrition—a must if you want your dinner to feel as good as it tastes.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for that melty, nutty flavor—I keep extra on hand for sprinkling on top!
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love that this Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own. Over time, I’ve played around with different tweaks depending on the season or what’s in my pantry—and I encourage you to do the same!

  • Make it Vegan: Swap out the butter for olive oil, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and skip the parmesan or try a nut-based cheese alternative—I’ve done this and it still has that velvety feel.
  • Spice it Up: Sometimes I throw in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors.
  • Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or even sautéed mushrooms if you want to bulk this up a bit—it pairs beautifully.
  • Seasonal Greens: Kale is my go-to, but spinach, Swiss chard, or even tender collard greens work well if you want to switch things up.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter & Sauté Garlic

Start by warming a medium skillet over medium heat and melt your unsalted butter. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté gently for about a minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant without burning it—that’s where the flavor really blossoms. Keep an eye here; garlic can tip from golden to bitter fast!

Step 2: Build the Base with Seasonings and Tomatoes

Next, sprinkle in your Tuscan Marry Me blend and sea salt. Stir it all together to release those lovely herb aromas. Then add your sundried tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated. This is your flavor foundation, so take a moment to breathe it in—it smells incredible!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, vegetable stock, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and white wine. Stir gently to combine. Let the sauce bubble softly for a minute or two, then whisk in the parmesan cheese. It’ll melt and thicken the sauce beautifully—this part always feels like magic to me. You’ll notice the sauce start turning velvety and rich.

Step 4: Add Greens and Butter Beans

Toss in the chopped kale and stir until it starts to wilt. Then, gently fold in your drained butter beans. Let everything simmer together for about 5-6 minutes, occasionally stirring. You want the beans tender and just a bit mashable, so the sauce clings in those soft spots—that’s my favorite texture.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, give it a quick taste for seasoning (adjust if needed), and plate it up. If you want to feel a little fancy, sprinkle extra parmesan on top. Now sit down and enjoy one of the coziest dishes you’ll make all week!

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe

  • Choose Quality Beans: If using canned, rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canned flavor; if dry, soak overnight and cook until tender for best creamy texture.
  • Don’t Rush the Sauce: Adding the cream and allowing the parmesan to melt slowly helps avoid curdling and ensures that silky finish we’re after.
  • Fresh Herbs Add Depth: If you don’t have the Tuscan blend, fresh rosemary and thyme finely chopped can bring that authentic Italian flair.
  • Avoid Overcooking Kale: Toss it in last and simmer just until wilted to keep some bite and vibrant color.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans, Tuscan butter beans recipe, garlic sundried tomato beans, vegetarian creamy bean dish, easy Tuscan bean recipe - A black skillet filled with creamy orange sauce layered with white beans and pieces of darker browned meat, scattered with fresh green herbs and bright red cherry tomatoes on top; on the right inside the skillet, there are two slices of toasted bread, one whole and one broken, showing a soft inside with green herbs; the skillet is placed on a white marbled surface with small green sprigs scattered around, a brown textured cloth with a gold fork and knife to the side, and parts of other dishes visible at the edges, all well lit. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I always add a handful of freshly grated parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top. Sometimes a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few torn fresh basil leaves add an extra pop, especially if I’m serving guests. Those little finishing touches make it feel extra special!

Side Dishes

This dish shines paired with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even crusty garlic bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce. On lighter days, I’ll serve it alongside simple roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. It’s so adaptable!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like spooning this creamy Tuscan butter beans recipe into warming ramekins, then topping with a parmesan crisp or herb sprig for a rustic Italian vibe. It doubles as a fantastic side or a vegetarian main—just pair with a nice glass of white wine, and you’re all set.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to keep my leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually stays fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even tastier.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, just be sure to cool completely before sealing in a freezer-safe container. I’ve found the texture holds up well after reheating, especially if you stir it gently to bring the sauce back together.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it feels a bit thick, adding a splash of vegetable stock helps loosen the sauce without losing any creaminess.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of beans instead of butter beans?

    Absolutely! Cannellini beans, great northern beans, or even chickpeas work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times and texture will vary, so adjust accordingly.

  2. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

    Yes! Swap out butter for olive oil, use coconut or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese. The dish still maintains a creamy, satisfying feel.

  3. Can I prepare any part of this recipe in advance?

    You can pre-chop the kale and mince the garlic ahead of time. Even the sauce base (butter, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and Tuscan spices) can be made a day ahead and reheated before adding cream and beans.

  4. What can I serve with this Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe?

    It’s delicious served over rice or creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread. For lighter meals, try it with roasted veggies or a crisp salad.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I love how it’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve when friends drop by unexpectedly. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your go-to “comfort fancy” meal like I have. Let me know what tweaks you make or how you serve it; I’m always excited to hear how recipes come alive in your kitchen!

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Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 61 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tuscan
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This creamy Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans recipe features tender butter beans simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with sundried tomatoes, garlic, kale, parmesan, and a blend of Tuscan seasonings. Perfect as a comforting, hearty vegetarian main or side dish.

Ingredients

Butter Beans

  • 2 (15 oz.) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup organic sundried tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon organic tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons Tuscan Marry Me blend
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup organic heavy cream
  • ½ cup organic vegetable stock
  • 3 tablespoons white cooking wine
  • ½ lemon, freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup chopped kale, organic
  • ½ cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the Tuscan Marry Me blend seasonings and sea salt until well combined. Add the sundried tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring thoroughly.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, vegetable stock, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and white cooking wine while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to bubble gently for 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Parmesan: Add the grated parmesan cheese and whisk until it fully melts and the sauce thickens, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Add Kale and Beans: Stir in the chopped kale followed by the drained butter beans. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 6 minutes until the beans are tender and can be mashed slightly.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy Tuscan butter beans with your choice of side such as rice, mashed potatoes, vegetables, or garlic bread. Garnish with additional grated parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • You can use dry butter beans soaked overnight as a substitute for canned beans; this may require longer cooking.
  • Other white beans like cannellini or great northern beans can be used instead of butter beans.
  • The Tuscan Marry Me blend can be purchased or made at home using a mix of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
  • If you prefer, substitute sundried tomatoes with roasted herb tomatoes for a milder flavor.
  • White cooking wine can be omitted or replaced with additional vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic version.
  • To make it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil, heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit parmesan or use vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg

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