Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—these garlic butter beans are simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and a swirl of cream. The perfect cozy dish for crusty bread, rice, or pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and hearty: Buttery beans and creamy sauce make this the ultimate comfort food.
Ready in 20 minutes: A quick one-pan meal that feels luxurious.
Meatless but satisfying: A vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Versatile: Serve it with bread, rice, pasta, or on its own.
Ingredient Highlights
Here’s what makes these creamy butter beans unforgettable:
Butter beans (aka lima beans): Mild, creamy, and packed with plant-based protein.
Garlic & spices: Layers of savory flavor with garlic, oregano, and paprika.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Add sweet-tart bursts of umami richness.
Heavy cream & parmesan: Bring luxurious texture and salty depth.
Spinach & basil: Fresh greens and herbs balance the richness beautifully.
Vegetable broth: Adjusts the consistency while adding flavor.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s the flavor foundation of the dish.
Chop the sun-dried tomatoes so they distribute evenly in each bite.
Use warm broth to help the ingredients combine smoothly.
Taste and adjust—add more salt or a splash of broth to balance thickness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Beans
Step 1: Start the Flavor Base
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Stir in the garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper, paprika, and black pepper.
Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and vegetable broth.
Add the drained butter beans.
Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes so the beans can absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 3: Finish with Cream & Greens
Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt from the residual heat.
Then pour in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Stir gently until creamy and combined.
What to Serve It With
Crusty sourdough or herbed focaccia
Over creamy mashed potatoes
With fluffy white rice or polenta
Tossed with pasta for a cozy, saucy meal
Variations & Substitutions
Swap cream: Use half-and-half or a splash of coconut cream for a dairy-light option.
Make it vegan: Omit parmesan and sub with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Use kale: Instead of spinach, just cook a little longer to soften.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use canned navy or cannellini beans instead?
Yes, any creamy white bean will work—just make sure they’re fully drained and rinsed.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use cherry tomatoes sautéed until soft, or skip them and add a bit of lemon zest for brightness.
Is this dish spicy?
There’s a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust it to your taste.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a large enough pan and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How do I thin the sauce?
Add more broth, a splash at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes—just thaw and squeeze out the water before adding it in.
What’s the best bread to serve with this?
Try garlic bread, focaccia, or toasted sourdough for a perfect match.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Beans dish is cozy, nourishing, and so simple to make.
It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something hearty and wholesome without a ton of effort.
Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with something carby, it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
