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Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans

These easy and quick Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans are a rich, dreamy, and comforting main course or side dish, perfect for busy weeknights and offering a taste of the Italian countryside.
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Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Tuscan
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 30 oz butter beans drained and rinsed (2 cans, 15 oz each)
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 0.5 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Step 4: Add drained and rinsed butter beans and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the flavors.
  5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens beautifully.
  6. Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and glossy.
  7. Step 7: Just before serving, stir in most of the fresh, chopped basil leaves. Dish it up and garnish with the remaining basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

This versatile recipe can be customized with additions like a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale (stir in with basil) or a protein boost such as cooked shredded chicken, white cannellini beans (instead of butter beans), or crispy fried tofu. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based heavy cream alternative along with a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika can add additional flavor twists.
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or extra cream to restore the sauce's luscious consistency as it can thicken when chilled. While technically freezer-safe, the heavy cream in the sauce might separate slightly upon thawing, affecting the texture, so it's best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.