If you’re searching for a rich, comforting, and deeply flavorful meal that comes together quickly, Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes) might just become your new favorite recipe. This dish is inspired by the wildly popular “marry me” style recipes—known for their creamy sauces, bold flavors, and irresistible appeal—but reimagined here with tender butter beans and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
The result is a luxurious, one-pan dish that feels indulgent while still being approachable for everyday cooking. Creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and silky butter beans come together in a way that’s both hearty and elegant. Whether served as a main dish or a standout side, this recipe delivers maximum comfort in minimal time.
What Are Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans?
Butter beans, also known as large lima beans, are prized for their soft, creamy texture and mild flavor. In this recipe, they are gently simmered in a Tuscan-style cream sauce made with garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, broth, and Parmesan-style cheese. The sauce thickens naturally as it cooks, coating each bean in velvety richness.
What sets Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes) apart is its balance. The creaminess is offset by tangy sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and fresh basil, making the dish feel layered and complex without being heavy.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes)
Ready Fast, Tastes Slow-Cooked
Despite tasting like something that simmered for hours, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
One-Pan Convenience
Everything comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup quick and stress-free.
Comforting Yet Elegant
This recipe works equally well for a cozy night in or as part of a dinner party spread.
Versatile and Customizable
Serve it with bread, rice, pasta, or vegetables, or add greens and spices to make it your own.
Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes)
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Flavor Builders
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Components
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
Beans and Cheese
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan-style cheese (or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast)
Fresh Finish
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Extra basil for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Butter Beans
Canned butter beans are convenient and ideal for this recipe. If using dried beans, soak overnight and cook until tender before starting the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These provide a concentrated burst of flavor. Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes work best; just drain excess oil before chopping.
Cream
Heavy cream creates the richest texture, while coconut cream provides a slightly sweeter, dairy-free alternative.
Cheese
Grated Parmesan-style cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, adding savory depth.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes)
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm until shimmering.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release their flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add the broth to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir well to combine with the aromatics.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the cream. Allow the sauce to warm gently without boiling.
Step 6: Add the Butter Beans
Gently fold in the butter beans, making sure they are fully coated in the sauce. Let them simmer for 5–7 minutes so they absorb the flavors.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle in the grated cheese and stir continuously until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth.
Step 8: Finish with Fresh Basil
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Allow the dish to rest for 2–3 minutes before serving so the sauce can settle and thicken further.
Serving Ideas
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes) pairs beautifully with:
- Warm crusty bread for dipping
- Steamed rice or orzo
- Short pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne
- Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or asparagus
It can also be enjoyed on its own as a comforting bowl-style meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
- Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat
- Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce
Freezing is possible, though cream-based sauces may change texture slightly upon reheating.
Customization Ideas
- Add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking
- Stir in cooked mushrooms for extra depth
- Increase red pepper flakes for more heat
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans (30-Minutes) is proof that simple pantry ingredients can transform into something truly special. Rich, comforting, and layered with Mediterranean flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
Once you try it, you’ll understand why “marry me” recipes have earned their name—this one is love at first bite.
