Introduction to Marry Me Butter Beans
Why "Marry Me" Butter Beans?
Have you ever cooked a dish so delicious that it left your loved ones practically begging for a life commitment? Welcome to the world of Marry Me Butter Beans! This delightful recipe combines creamy butter beans with a luscious Tuscan sauce, creating a meal that's not just quick to prepare but utterly irresistible.
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, main course, or companion to your favorite sides. Using canned butter beans means you can skip the soaking and cooking, making this ideal for busy evenings when you crave something special without the hassle. According to a study by Nutrition Journal, legumes like butter beans are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making them a smart and satisfying choice for any dinner table.
What makes these marry me butter beans truly special is their versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Want a little crunch? Toss in some crispy turkey bacon. Looking for a veggie boost? Substitute spinach with kale or even add tofu for a protein-packed punch.
So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You and your loved ones will be hooked after the first bite.
Ingredients for Marry Me Butter Beans
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal in under 15 minutes, Marry Me Butter Beans are a fantastic choice! This delightful dish is not only quick but also packed with flavor thanks to its simple yet delightful ingredients.
Essential ingredients
To create this mouthwatering recipe, you'll need:
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter form the base of our creamy sauce.
- Garlic: 4 cloves of minced garlic add that irresistible aroma and taste.
- Herbs & Spices: A pinch of salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup gives a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the beans.
- Vegetable Broth: A splash (½ to 1 cup) helps achieve the ideal sauce consistency.
- Butter Beans: Two 15-ounce cans of drained butter beans provide that creamy texture you crave.
- Fresh Spinach: 1 cup of chopped spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition.
- Cream & Cheese: 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated parmesan bring the sauce to a decadent finish.
- Basil: Finally, top it off with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil for a bright herbaceous touch.
These marry me butter beans are versatile, so feel free to get creative with additions like kale or crispy tofu! For more help, check out our guide on how to make vegetable broth.
Step-by-step preparation for Marry Me Butter Beans
Creating a comforting dish like Marry Me Butter Beans with a creamy Tuscan sauce is not only simple but also a delightful experience! Below, I've broken down the process step-by-step to help you on your culinary journey.
Sauté the flavor base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves, stirring until the kitchen is filled with that irresistible garlic aroma. To elevate the taste, add ½ teaspoon each of salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika, followed by ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes—you want the garlic to become fragrant without burning. This step sets a delicious foundation for your marry me butter beans!
Add the fillings
Next, stir in ½ cup of roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes—these will bring a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish. Now it's time for the star of the show: add 2 cans (15 oz each) of drained butter beans. Depending on your preference, you can incorporate ½ to 1 cup of vegetable broth; this will give you control over the sauce’s thickness. Cook the mixture on medium heat for 5 more minutes, allowing the beans to warm up and absorb all those lovely flavors.
Incorporate the creamy elements
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and prepare to indulge in creaminess! Gently stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach until it wilts. This not only adds flavor but also a pop of color. Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option) and ½ cup of grated parmesan. Mixing in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil adds a fresh, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the creaminess. Your marry me butter beans are nearly complete!
Finish with fresh greens
For that final touch, consider adding more fresh greens. You might want to toss in some extra basil or even a sprinkle of arugula for a spicy kick. This layer not only brightens the dish but also adds appealing visual contrast.
Serve and enjoy
Now that your marry me butter beans are ready, it’s time to dig in! Serve them warm alongside some crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta for a delightful meal. Trust me, this dish will leave your guests asking for seconds—perhaps even getting a little romantic over the deliciousness! So, gather your folks, pour some sparkling water, and enjoy this quick and comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is to fall in love with!
Variations on Marry Me Butter Beans
Marry Me Butter Beans with Kale
For a delightful twist, try incorporating kale into your Marry Me Butter Beans. Just add a generous handful during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts. Not only does this boost nutrition, but it adds a lovely, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the creamy sauce. Plus, kale is packed with vitamins and minerals, making your dish even healthier. You can learn more about the benefits of kale over at Healthline.
Marry Me Butter Beans with Crispy Tofu
If you’re looking for a plant-based protein option, crispy tofu is an excellent addition to your Marry Me Butter Beans. Simply pan-fry cubes of tofu until golden brown and crispy, then stir them in just before serving. This adds delightful texture and heartiness to the dish, elevating it to a satisfying main course. Can't decide which tofu to use? Check out this guide to find the perfect one for your taste!
Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what’s in your pantry or your current cravings!
Cooking tips and notes for Marry Me Butter Beans
Key cooking techniques
Creating Marry Me Butter Beans is a breeze with a few essential techniques. Start by sautéing your garlic until it’s fragrant—this step sets the flavor foundation. Next, when adding vegetable broth, consider how you’ll serve it. For a thicker sauce, stick to ½ cup broth; for a looser consistency great with pasta or rice, opt for 1 cup.
Ingredient substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half makes an excellent substitute. For added protein, consider incorporating crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham. You can also experiment with leafy greens—a switch from spinach to kale can offer a delightful twist on these Marry Me Butter Beans. For a vegan version, use coconut cream instead of dairy. Don’t hesitate to check out options for sun-dried tomatoes, or explore how to make your own vegetable broth here. Enjoy the journey in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Butter Beans
Best Accompaniments
To truly elevate your Marry Me Butter Beans, consider pairing them with complementary flavors. A few fantastic options include:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Rice: White or brown rice works great to balance the richness.
- Pasta: Tossing the butter beans over fettuccine or penne adds a delightful heartiness.
- Fresh Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Creative Serving Ideas
Get imaginative with how you plate your Marry Me Butter Beans! Serve them in:
- Individual Bowls: Great for casual gatherings or family dinners.
- Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with this delightful mixture for a colorful dish.
- Over Polenta: A creamy polenta base beautifully complements the flavors while adding an Italian touch.
- With Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies on the side bring another layer of flavor and texture.
Experiment with these ideas, and let your Marry Me Butter Beans shine! For more innovative accompaniments, check out resources like EatingWell or Bon Appétit.
Time breakdown for Marry Me Butter Beans
When you're short on time but still craving something delicious, Marry Me Butter Beans are the way to go! This comforting dish is super quick to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a quick time breakdown:
Preparation time
- 5 minutes
Gather your ingredients and chop your veggies to streamline the cooking process.
Cooking time
- 10 minutes
Sauté, stir, and simmer! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying dish ready to enjoy.
Total time
- 15 minutes
That’s right! In just a quarter hour, you can serve up a delightful meal that will have everyone begging for seconds—perfect for a cozy night in or even a dinner party with friends.
With so little time needed, why not give these butter beans a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you! If you're looking for other quick and easy recipes, check out Live Eat Learn for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Butter Beans
When preparing Marry Me Butter Beans, it's essential to understand the nutritional profile of this delightful dish. Here’s a quick look at the key nutritional information:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 441 calories, making it a satisfying option for both a main dish or a hearty appetizer.
Protein
You’ll enjoy 16.8 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the butter beans and parmesan cheese, providing a great protein boost for your meal.
Sodium
While flavorful, keep in mind that this dish has about 952mg of sodium per serving. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium vegetable broth for a healthier variation.
This delicious dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a standout choice for your weeknight dinners or special occasions. Explore more on creating the perfect sauces or explore variance with vegetables over at Healthline to take your meal further!
FAQs about Marry Me Butter Beans
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Marry Me Butter Beans can be prepped ahead of time. You can sauté the flavor base and combine it with the beans and cream according to the recipe instructions. Just store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Transfer any remaining Marry Me Butter Beans to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They'll last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might want to add a little extra cream or broth to help rejuvenate the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For those who love a spicy kick, consider adding some finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to customize the heat to your liking!
Conclusion on Marry Me Butter Beans
In just 15 minutes, marry me butter beans transform into a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served solo or as a side, this recipe offers endless customization. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to find your perfect match! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Marry Me Butter Beans (With Creamy Tuscan Sauce)
Equipment
- large sauté pan or pot
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes roughly chopped
- 0.5 to 1 cup vegetable broth use 1 cup for a looser sauce or 0.5 cup for a thicker sauce
- 2 15-oz cans butter beans drained, approx. 425 g cans
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream can sub half-and-half
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, 0.5 teaspoon each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper in a large saute pan or pot over medium heat. Cook for about 2 minutes, until garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 0.5 to 1 cup vegetable broth, and 2 15-oz cans butter beans. Continue cooking on medium, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup chopped fresh spinach until wilted, then stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 0.5 cup grated parmesan, and 2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil. Serve warm with crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta.
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