Delicious Butter Bean Creamy Skillet
Hey there! Today, I want to share with you a lovely and creamy dish that’s not only quick to make but also super satisfying. Imagine a warm, comforting skillet filled with butter beans, garlic, and creamy goodness—it’s just the kind of meal that wraps you up in a cozy hug. I can’t wait for you to try it, especially since it’s perfect for any night of the week!
Nutritional Benefits of Butter Beans
You might be wondering, “What’s so great about butter beans?” Well, let me tell you! Butter beans are packed with protein and fiber, which makes them a fantastic option for a filling meal. Plus, they contain important nutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium. If you’re aiming to eat more plant-based meals, they’re a superb choice! Not to mention, this recipe gives you a creamy texture without needing loads of unhealthy fats. Using coconut cream as a swap keeps it deliciously rich yet vegan, perfect for accommodating various diets.
Fun Variations to Try
If you love to play around with flavors, this dish is super adaptable! Here are a few ideas:
- Herb Infusion: Swap out the dried Italian herbs with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Kick it Up a Notch: Add in some sautéed spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color.
- Vegetable Punch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini to bulk it up with veggies.
- This One’s for the Bacon Lovers: For a non-vegetarian version, crumbling crispy bacon over the top gives it a savory crunch that’s hard to resist!
Easy Creamy Butter Bean Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 2-3 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
Serves 4–6 people
Standard portions → 2 cans butter beans with 1/2 cup cream and 1 cup broth
Slightly smaller portions → up to 6 servings with slightly less cream and broth
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s softened and translucent.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until it smells fantastic!
- Now, add the drained butter beans to your skillet, followed by the vegetable broth.
- Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld wonderfully.
- Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), making sure it mixes well and becomes creamy.
- If you’re using bacon, fold in the crumbled pieces for that extra flavor boost.
- Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Once done, take it off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Practical Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove!
- For a quick serving idea, this dish goes beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If you’re looking to meal prep, you can make this ahead and freeze it in portion sizes. Just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!
Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:
- A large skillet or frying pan
- A cutting board and knife for chopping your veggies
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup for your vegetable broth and cream
- A strainer for rinsing the butter beans
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned beans other than butter beans? Sure! Other types such as cannellini or chickpeas will work just fine.
- Is there a substitute for heavy cream? Yes! Coconut cream is a great non-dairy alternative. You could also use cashew cream for a homemade option.
- How spicy is it with red pepper flakes? It really depends on your taste! Start with a little, and you can always add more if you like it spicy.
- Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook it in batches.
- What can I serve this with? It’s great on its own or served alongside crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
I hope you enjoy making this creamy butter bean dish as much as I do! If you try it out, please let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear from you! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes to spice up your cooking, follow me on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
