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!
