Marry Me Butter Beans: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Marry Me Butter Beans: Prepare to fall head-over-heels in love with this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple dish! Forget everything you thought you knew about humble butter beans because this recipe transforms them into a creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible culinary experience. Are you ready to create a dish so good, it might just inspire a proposal?

While the exact origins of the “Marry Me” moniker are shrouded in a bit of mystery, the sentiment is clear: this dish is designed to impress. Similar to other “Marry Me” recipes, like the famous chicken version, the magic lies in the rich, decadent sauce that elevates a simple ingredient to something truly special. This particular iteration, featuring the often-overlooked butter bean, offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food theme.

What makes these Marry Me Butter Beans so universally adored? It’s a symphony of textures and tastes. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth butter beans are perfectly complemented by the savory depth of garlic, the subtle sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping side dish, these beans are sure to become a new favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried large white beans (such as Great Northern or Cannellini)
• 8 cups vegetable broth, plus more as needed
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving

Preparing the Beans:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is tackle those beans. Dried beans are the key to the best flavor and texture, trust me. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think!

1. Soaking the Beans: Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or shriveled beans. There are two ways to soak them: the overnight method and the quick soak method.
   • Overnight Soak: Place the rinsed beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of cold water (at least 2 inches above the beans). Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. This helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
   • Quick Soak: If you’re short on time, use the quick soak method. Place the rinsed beans in a large pot and cover them with plenty of cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then boil for 2 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the beans soak for 1 hour.
2. Draining and Rinsing: After soaking, drain the beans in a colander and rinse them well under cold water. This helps to remove any remaining impurities.
3. Cooking the Beans: Place the drained and rinsed beans in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them with 8 cups of vegetable broth. Make sure the broth covers the beans by at least an inch; add more if needed.
4. Simmering the Beans: Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cooking time will vary depending on the age and type of beans. Check for doneness after an hour. You want them creamy, but not falling apart.
5. Seasoning the Beans (Part 1): Once the beans are tender, season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remember, we’ll be adding more seasoning later, so don’t overdo it now.

Creating the Flavor Base:

While the beans are simmering, let’s get started on the flavor base. This is where the magic happens, and it’s what makes these beans so incredibly delicious!

1. Sautéing the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven (if you didn’t use it for the beans), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Adding the Garlic and Bell Pepper: Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper is slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Incorporating the Tomatoes: Add the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine. The sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated burst of flavor that’s just amazing.
4. Deglazing with White Wine (Optional): If using, pour the dry white wine into the skillet. Bring the wine to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth and complexity to the sauce. If you don’t have white wine, you can skip this step or use a splash of vegetable broth.
5. Simmering the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Bringing It All Together:

Now for the grand finale! It’s time to combine the beans and the sauce and create that “Marry Me” magic.

1. Combining Beans and Sauce: Carefully transfer the cooked beans (with some of their cooking liquid) to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to combine. You want the beans to be coated in the flavorful sauce.
2. Simmering and Thickening: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow it to reduce.
3. Adding the Cream and Parmesan (Optional): Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). The cream adds richness and the Parmesan adds a salty, savory note. Stir until the cheese is melted and the cream is fully incorporated.
4. Seasoning (Part 2): Season the beans with the chopped fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
5. Final Simmer: Simmer the beans for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together even further. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serving:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! It’s time to serve these incredible “Marry Me” Butter Beans.

1. Serving Suggestions: Serve the beans hot, garnished with extra fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. With Crusty Bread: The best way to enjoy these beans is with plenty of crusty bread for dipping and soaking up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single drop!
3. Optional Additions: For an extra touch, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. This brightens up the flavors and adds a nice zing. You can also top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes.

Tips and Variations:

• Bean Variety: While I recommend Great Northern or Cannellini beans, you can also use other types of white beans, such as Navy beans or butter beans (also known as lima beans).
• Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Make Ahead: These beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually develop even more as they sit. Reheat gently before serving.
• Freezing: You can also freeze these beans for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Protein Boost: Add some cooked sausage, pancetta, or bacon to the skillet along with the onion for a heartier dish.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or sage would also be delicious in this recipe.

Enjoy!

I hope you love these “Marry Me” Butter Beans as much as I do! They’re the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in, and they’re sure to impress anyone you share them with. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest – you’ve read this far, so you’re already intrigued, right? And trust me, you absolutely should be! These Marry Me Butter Beans are more than just a dish; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates humble butter beans into something truly extraordinary. The creamy texture, the rich, savory sauce, and the bright burst of lemon – it all comes together in perfect harmony. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. What more could you ask for?

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I adore serving these beans as a main course with a crusty baguette for soaking up all that delicious sauce, the possibilities are truly endless. Imagine spooning them over creamy polenta for an extra layer of comfort. Or, toss them with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Grilled chicken or fish would also be fantastic alongside these flavorful beans.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
* Go green: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
* Make it meaty: Brown some Italian sausage or pancetta before adding the onions and garlic for a heartier dish.
* Vegan option: Ensure you’re using a plant-based butter alternative and vegetable broth.
* Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to customize the flavor profile.
* Cheese, please!: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option) just before serving adds a lovely salty, savory note.

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and each time I tweak it slightly based on what I have on hand or what I’m in the mood for. That’s the beauty of cooking, isn’t it? It’s all about experimenting and making it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. This Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is destined to become a new favorite in your household.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I am confident that you will love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple, yet elegant dish that is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch. After all, cooking should be fun! Enjoy!