Fall in love with dinner all over again when you spoon rich, creamy butter beans coated in a sun-dried tomato sauce onto crisp-toasted bread.

This Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans recipe is a plant-based twist on the viral “Marry Me Chicken,” swapping tender beans for chicken and dairy-free cream for a velvety sauce.

Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate cozy weeknight meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1-Pot Wonder – From sauté to serve in one pan, with minimal cleanup

Ultra creamy – Bean­juice + coconut cream create a luxurious, dairy-free sauce

Vegan & Gluten-Free – Naturally plant-based and perfect with gluten-free bread

Meal-Prep Friendly – Enjoy leftovers for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 1 month

“Marry Me” Magic – That famed sun-dried tomato flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Butter Beans – Thick, flat beans that soak up sauce; swap lima, chickpeas, or cannellini if needed (keep the liquid!)

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Marinated in oil for concentrated, savory sweetness

Coconut Cream – Only the thick cream for the richest, silkiest sauce (not coconut milk)

Shallot & Garlic – The classic flavor base, finely diced for even sautéing

Tomato Paste & Herbs – Tomato paste, dried oregano, thyme, and a pinch of chili flakes for warmth

Nutritional Yeast – Adds a hint of “cheesy” depth without dairy

Fresh Basil – Bright, herbaceous finish that balances richness

Pro Tips Before You Start

Keep the Bean Liquid: The aquafaba from canned butter beans is your secret to extra-creamy sauce—do not strain!

Chop Finely: Mince shallot, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes so they infuse every bite.

Heat Control: Sauté aromatics over medium heat to prevent burning, then simmer gently for a thickened sauce.

Fresh Coconut Cream: Chill the can overnight for easy scooping of just the cream layer.

Toasting Bread: Serve on hot, crusty sourdough or focaccia to soak up every last drop.

How to Make Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 Tbsp vegan butter (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium.

Add 1 large shallot (finely diced) and 4 cloves garlic (minced).

Sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Stir in ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 Tbsp tomato paste

¼ tsp dried oregano, ¼ tsp dried thyme, and ¼ tsp chili flakes.

Cook 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 3: Add Beans & Cream

Pour in 15 oz canned butter beans with their liquid, then add 2 Tbsp coconut cream

1 Tbsp nutritional yeast, and ½ Tbsp lemon juice.

Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Let the beans cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This reduces excess liquid, thickens the sauce, and melds flavors.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil, then season with salt & pepper to taste.

Spoon over toasted bread—or pile into bowls—and garnish with extra basil.

What to Serve With These Butter Beans

Toasted Sourdough or Focaccia – For dipping and scooping

Vegan Garlic Bread – A buttery, garlicky contrast

Steamed Greens – Baby spinach or kale adds freshness

Bowl of Rice – Makes it feel like a velvety bean curry

Variations / Substitutions

Bean Swap: Use chickpeas or cannellini beans—retaining the liquid for creaminess.

cream Alternative: Unsweetened plant-based creamer or vegan cream cheese can stand in for coconut cream.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for heat and smokiness.

Veggie Boost: Stir in baby spinach or artichoke hearts at the end for extra color and nutrients.

Herb Twist: Swap fresh basil for parsley or tarragon for a different herbal note.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days. Sauce will thicken; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slowly on low heat.

Reheat: Microwave or stovetop over low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I strain the beans?
No—keeping the liquid ensures the sauce’s signature creaminess.

What if I don’t have coconut cream?
Use unsweetened plant-based creamer or vegan cream cheese 1:1.

How spicy is this dish?
Mild—adjust chili flakes to taste or omit entirely for a gentler flavor.

Is this recipe truly vegan?
Yes—substitute vegan butter and ensure your bread is dairy-free if serving on toast.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just scale ingredients and use a larger pan.

What bread works best?
A sturdy, crusty loaf like sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia is ideal.

Can I add protein?
For extra protein, stir in cooked vegan sausage slices or pan-seared tofu cubes.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans recipe proves that plant-based can be downright seductive.

With its creamy, tomato-kissed sauce and herb-bright finish, it’s destined to become your go-to for easy, comforting dinners.

Trust us—one spoonful, and you’ll understand why it lives up to its “Marry Me” name!