These butter beans are simmered in a rich tomato and herb sauce with coconut cream and fresh basil, creating a creamy, savory, and flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy meal, this vegan-friendly recipe pairs beautifully with toasted bread, rice, or pasta for a satisfying and nourishing dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy – Coconut cream adds a luxurious texture.
- Easy & One-Pan – Simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
- Vegan & Healthy – Packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
- Full of Flavor – A blend of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs makes it irresistible.
- Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cans butter beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup fresh basil (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- Toasted bread, rice, or pasta (for serving)
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes & Spices – Pour in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in Butter Beans – Add the drained butter beans and stir to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Make it Creamy – Pour in the coconut cream and stir until smooth. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until everything is heated through.
- Finish with Fresh Basil – Stir in chopped basil and remove from heat.
- Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with extra basil and serve warm with toasted bread, rice, or pasta.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Twist – Add nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
- Extra Veggies – Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Thicker Sauce – Mash some of the beans for a thicker consistency.
- Protein Boost – Stir in chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed.
FAQs
Can I use dried butter beans?
Yes! Soak them overnight, then cook until tender before using in the recipe.
What’s a good substitute for coconut cream?
Heavy cream (if not vegan) or cashew cream works well.
Can I use other beans?
Yes! Cannellini or great northern beans are great alternatives.
How do I make it less spicy?
Omit the red pepper flakes and use mild smoked paprika.
What can I serve with this dish?
Toasted bread, rice, pasta, or even quinoa work well.
Can I add meat or seafood?
Yes! Shrimp or grilled chicken can be added for a non-vegan option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free bread or grains.
Can I make this oil-free?
Yes! Sauté the onions in vegetable broth instead of olive oil.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans for a natural thickener.
Conclusion
Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether served with crusty bread, rice, or pasta, this creamy, herby dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, protein-packed meal!
Print
Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans are simmered in a rich tomato and herb sauce with coconut cream and fresh basil. A savory vegan dish perfect for serving with toasted bread or rice!
Ingredients
For the Butter Beans:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 (15 oz) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup coconut cream (or heavy cream for non-vegan option)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For Serving:
- Toasted bread, rice, or pasta
- Extra fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Build the Sauce:
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Simmer the Butter Beans:
- Add butter beans and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the beans to absorb the flavors.
- Make it Creamy:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in coconut cream.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Stir in fresh basil and remove from heat.
- Serve warm with toasted bread, rice, or pasta.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before adding the tomatoes.
- Swap butter beans for cannellini beans if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, Vegan
Find it online: https://yumandjoy.com/marry-me-butter-beans/
