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Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

These Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans are a warm hug on a plate—quick, easy, and packed with bright lemon, savory garlic, and a wonderfully creamy texture. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans butter beans 15 oz each, drained and rinsed well, also called lima beans
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or plant-based butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian herbs
  • 1 lemon juice and zest
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan or vegan Parmesan grated, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add your olive oil or plant-based butter and let it get warm and shimmery.
  2. Step 2: Toss in your minced garlic and chili flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Step 3: Stir in your drained and rinsed butter beans, vegetable broth (or water), and dried thyme or Italian herbs. Give it all a good stir to combine.
  4. Step 4: Let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the beans to soak up the flavors and the liquid to reduce slightly.
  5. Step 5: Gently mash about a quarter to a third of the beans directly in the skillet using the back of a spoon or a potato masher. This helps thicken the sauce.
  6. Step 6: Stir in the juice and zest from your lemon. Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed. If using optional Parmesan, stir it in now.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe is naturally plant-based if you skip the optional Parmesan cheese. To store leftovers, cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. Avoid burning the garlic during sautéing; it can turn bitter quickly. Mash only some of the beans to create creaminess while keeping texture.