Marry Me Butter Beans Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s cozy, bursting with flavor, and downright irresistible, then the Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is your new best friend. This luscious, creamy concoction combines tender butter beans with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, all swirled together in a velvety sauce that’s spiked with garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of heat. It’s comfort food elevated to a romantic experience that you’ll want to make time and time again. Trust me, once you taste these Marry Me Butter Beans, you’ll understand why this recipe gets such a passionate name.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients that bring layers of flavor, texture, and color to the table. Each component plays a special role, from the creamy butter beans that create a soothing base, to the sun-dried tomatoes that add a burst of tang, making this dish irresistibly inviting.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and is the perfect carrier for your aromatic garlic and spices.
• 2 cloves garlic: Freshly grated for maximum flavor depth and a little warmth.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough for a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato goodness that brings sweet acidity and a deep color to the sauce.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans: The star of the show, providing a tender, buttery texture that’s utterly satisfying.
• 1½ cup vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that helps marry all the ingredients beautifully.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Creates a dreamy, silky consistency—can be swapped for non-dairy cream for a vegan twist.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a gentle herbal note that complements the richness.
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan: Umami-packed cheese that enhances the dish’s savory profile.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes: Brings tanginess, chewiness, and a pop of intense flavor to every bite.
• 2 cups spinach: Fresh, vibrant, and perfect for brightening up the creamy base.
• 1 handful basil leaves: The fresh herb topping that adds aromatic brightness and a pop of green.
• Lemon zest: A finishing touch that lifts the entire dish with its zing.
• ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring harmony to the flavors.

How to Make Marry Me Butter Beans

Step 1: Building the Flavor Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet. Once warm, add your freshly grated garlic and red pepper flakes, letting them infuse the oil for about 30 seconds. The aroma will fill your kitchen with promise! Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook briefly until it becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized. This step melts all the fresh sharpness into a deep, rich sweetness that forms the soul of your Marry Me Butter Beans.

Step 2: Adding the Butter Beans

Drain and rinse the butter beans before adding them to your skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to bring out their subtle nutty flavor. Give everything a good sauté for a minute to ensure the beans soak up that flavorful base. At this point, you can already tell how those simple ingredients are coming together beautifully.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Cream

Pour in the vegetable broth and let the mixture simmer for approximately 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens—watch as the beans soften and begin to release their natural starch, whisking the sauce into creamy perfection. Then, add heavy cream, dried oregano, and fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt gently in the sauce, adding a lovely splash of color and a hint of earthiness that balances the richness perfectly.

Step 4: Finish with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan

Turn off the heat and fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the grated parmesan. These final ingredients add bursts of concentrated flavor and a silky, cheesy finish that make the Marry Me Butter Beans simply unforgettable. Give it a gentle stir and prepare yourself for the best part—eating!

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans

Garnishes

To truly elevate your serving game, top your butter beans with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated lemon zest. These garnishes add freshness and a bright, zesty contrast that will make your taste buds sing with delight. Don’t forget extra parmesan on the side for anyone who loves an extra cheesy touch.

Side Dishes

Marry Me Butter Beans pair beautifully with crusty rustic bread that’s been rubbed with garlic. The bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy beans and sauce. Alternatively, serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted veggies for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Marry Me Butter Beans over creamy polenta or even as a topping for baked potatoes. You can also turn this recipe into a hearty stuffed pepper filling or pile it onto crostini for an elegant appetizer. The dish’s rich yet light texture makes it incredibly versatile and perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Butter Beans keep wonderfully well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making the second or third-day enjoyment just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Pour cooled butter beans into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that creamy consistency.

Reheating

When you’re ready to dig in again, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and to help the flavors freshen up. Avoid microwaving directly if possible, as slower reheating keeps the buttery beans creamy and luscious.

FAQs

Can I make Marry Me Butter Beans vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the heavy cream for any plant-based cream and replace parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Are canned butter beans a good substitute for fresh or dried beans?

Canned butter beans are perfectly fine and very convenient. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce excess sodium and improve flavor.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with chopped roasted red peppers or omit them entirely, but the sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tang that really highlights this dish.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?

Fresh tomatoes can work, but tomato paste gives the sauce a rich, concentrated flavor and perfect thickness that’s hard to replicate otherwise.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free bread if you’re avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Marry Me Butter Beans recipe—it’s comforting yet elegant, simple yet packed with layers of flavor that build in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special someone, this dish promises to delight and satisfy. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with this creamy, cozy, and unforgettable meal!

Print