If you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting meal that’s both flavorful and plant-based, these Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans might just become your new favorite. Inspired by the creamy, dreamy “Marry Me” dish concept, this version uses hearty butter beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs to create a delicious one-pan meal that’s quick, nourishing, and totally satisfying.
With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cook time, this dish fits perfectly into a weeknight dinner routine or a cozy weekend meal. It’s rich and creamy while still feeling light and wholesome, making it perfect for plant-based eaters or anyone looking for a meatless main dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this dish. First, it’s incredibly creamy without any dairy, making it perfect for vegans and those avoiding lactose. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs creates a savory, tangy sauce that hugs each butter bean in a warm, silky coat. Plus, the whole recipe comes together in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze.
Whether you’re making dinner for one or serving guests, this dish brings comfort and flavor to the table with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the essential ingredients that make this recipe both simple and satisfying.
Vegan Butter (2 tablespoons)
Used to sauté the base ingredients, it adds richness and depth to the dish right from the start.
Shallot (1 large, finely diced)
Shallots offer a sweeter and milder flavor than onions, creating a more delicate base for the sauce.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Garlic builds the savory aroma and provides an essential flavor layer in this Italian-inspired dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (⅓ cup, oil-packed and chopped)
Packed with concentrated tomato flavor, sun-dried tomatoes bring bold, tangy sweetness to the sauce.
Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon)
This deepens the tomato profile and gives the sauce a thicker consistency.
Dried Oregano and Thyme (¼ teaspoon each)
These classic herbs infuse the dish with Tuscan-style flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and beans.
Chili Flakes (¼ teaspoon)
Adds a subtle heat to the dish. Feel free to adjust the quantity to match your spice preference.
Canned Butter Beans (1 can, 15 oz, including liquid)
These beans are soft, creamy, and protein-rich. The canning liquid adds body to the sauce, so don’t discard it.
Coconut Cream (2 tablespoons)
Gives the dish a silky, creamy texture without using dairy. Make sure to use full-fat coconut cream for best results.
Nutritional Yeast (1 tablespoon)
Adds a savory, cheesy flavor that enhances the depth of the dish, especially useful in plant-based recipes.
Lemon Juice (½ tablespoon)
Brightens the flavor profile and cuts through the richness of the coconut cream.
Fresh Basil (2 tablespoons, chopped)
Stirred in at the end for freshness and a pop of color, basil completes the dish with its vibrant aroma.
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
How to Make Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans
This meal starts by building a flavorful base with shallots, garlic, and herbs, then simmering everything with butter beans and coconut cream to create a comforting, rich sauce. The end result is a hearty, satisfying dish made with just one pot and a handful of ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the shallot, mincing the garlic, and dicing the sun-dried tomatoes. Gather all your spices and liquids to have them ready.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
Melt the vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the shallots and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the flavor base
Add in the sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Stir and let everything cook for another 1–2 minutes to release their flavors and deepen the sauce.
Step 4: Add beans and creamy ingredients
Pour in the entire can of butter beans along with the liquid. Add the coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Simmer until thickened
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 5–7 minutes. The sauce will reduce slightly and thicken as it cooks.
Step 6: Add basil and season
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve warm
Ladle the beans into bowls and enjoy while hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, rice, or any favorite grain.
Helpful Tips
For best results, use the liquid from the canned beans to help create a naturally creamy texture. Be sure not to skip the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, as they provide deep flavor. If you don’t have coconut cream, you can substitute with any thick, unsweetened plant-based cream or even cashew cream. This dish also tastes better after sitting for a few minutes, which allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
Recipe Details
Flavor:
Bold and savory with a balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes.
Texture:
Silky and smooth, with tender beans and a velvety sauce that clings to every bite.
Occasion:
Perfect for cozy nights, meatless Mondays, or anytime you want a hearty vegan dinner.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Notes and Variations
To customize the dish, you can use cannellini beans or white navy beans if butter beans aren’t available. For extra greens, stir in baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. If you like things a bit spicier, simply increase the chili flakes to your liking. Want a lighter version? Add a splash of vegetable broth to stretch the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 407 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 51 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 15 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Sodium | 896 mg |
These values are estimates based on two large servings and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients go into Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans?
This recipe uses butter beans, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, shallots, coconut cream, nutritional yeast, herbs, and spices for a bold and creamy vegan meal.
Can I use butter beans instead of chicken in similar recipes?
Yes, butter beans are a fantastic substitute. They’re hearty, creamy, and absorb flavors well, making them ideal for dishes that typically use chicken.
How can I make this dish creamy without dairy?
By using the liquid from the canned beans and a few tablespoons of coconut cream, you get a naturally creamy sauce without needing dairy.
What are good sides for this recipe?
Serve it with toasted sourdough, over rice, or next to roasted vegetables. It also pairs nicely with a light salad.
Storage Instructions
Once the beans have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of water or plant milk to loosen the sauce. You can freeze this dish for up to one month. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Print
Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans | Cozy & Creamy Plant-Based Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Creamy and packed with flavor, these Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans are a comforting vegan one-pan dinner featuring sun-dried tomatoes, coconut cream, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegan butter
1 large shallot, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon chili flakes
1 (15 oz) can butter beans with liquid
2 tablespoons coconut cream
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
½ tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Finely chop shallots and garlic, and dice sun-dried tomatoes.
2. In a skillet, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add the can of butter beans with liquid, followed by coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a low simmer and cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Turn off heat, stir in chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides like crusty bread or rice.
Notes
Use bean liquid for added creaminess.
Coconut cream can be replaced with other unsweetened plant-based cream.
Spinach or kale can be added in the last few minutes for extra nutrients.
Adjust chili flakes to taste for more or less heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Vegan Dinner, One-Pot Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large bowl
- Calories: 407
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 896mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Conclusion
Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans are proof that comfort food doesn’t need meat or dairy to be rich, satisfying, and delicious. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a one-pot dinner packed with bold Italian-inspired flavors and creamy texture that will leave you feeling nourished and cozy. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a longtime fan, this recipe is sure to win your heart. Give it a try and let it become part of your weekly rotation.