Name: Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan); 2 cans (15 oz) butter beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Jump to Recipe

When comfort food meets Italian romance, you get this irresistible Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans. Tender, buttery beans simmer in a luscious garlic cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and Parmesan. It’s creamy, cozy, and ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for weeknights, date nights, or when you want something indulgent yet wholesome.

This dish captures everything I love about Tuscan cooking: warmth, simplicity, and ingredients that sing together. With just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful. Whether you serve it as a main with crusty bread or as a side for roasted chicken or fish, it’s pure comfort in a pan.

Why You’ll Love It

Ready in 30 minutes: Quick, easy, and full of flavor — perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy and rich: A luscious sauce made with garlic, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Vegetarian & gluten-free: Naturally satisfying and flexible for different diets.
One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup without sacrificing comfort or flavor.
Customizable: Easily make it vegan, add greens, or toss in pasta for variation.
Cozy Tuscan vibes: Perfect for fall and winter dinners — warm, herby, and aromatic.

Time Needed

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, rinsed and drained
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast for vegan)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the aromatics Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. The base of the sauce should smell rich and inviting.
Build the sauce Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the broth and let it simmer for a minute to release all the flavor from the tomatoes.
Make it creamy Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream. Watch as the sauce turns silky and golden. This is where the magic begins!
Add the beans Gently fold in the butter beans, making sure they’re fully coated in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer for 5–7 minutes to absorb the Tuscan flavors.
Finish with cheese and herbs Stir in Parmesan cheese to thicken the sauce naturally. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Adjust to taste, then toss in fresh basil before serving.

Variations to Try

Vegan Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy for a fully plant-based version.
Greens Galore: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes for a nutrient boost.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for heat and depth.
Protein Upgrade: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Tips from Chef Emma

Use quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the richest flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer — it’s what gives the sauce that restaurant-style depth.
For extra creaminess, mash a few beans into the sauce before serving.
Garnish with extra basil and a sprinkle of cheese for the perfect presentation.

Nutrition Info per Serving

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 4g
Fat: 22g
Protein: 14g
Sodium: 340mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
A: Yes! Canned butter beans work perfectly—just rinse and drain before adding them to the sauce.
Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute the cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a creamy, vegan version.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Definitely. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream before serving.
Q: What should I serve it with?
A: Crusty bread, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad make wonderful sides for this Tuscan-inspired dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans dish is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s hearty, comforting, and ready in just half an hour. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or sharing it at the dinner table, every bite brings warmth and joy. Save this recipe to your dinner board — it’s one you’ll want to make again and again!