Subscribe to get Weekly delicious and simple recipes to your inbox
Creamy Butter Beans
Some days feel like one big cooking puzzle where you’re just trying to make something tasty with what’s in the pantry. On one of those evenings, I found a can of butter beans and thought, let’s turn this into something cozy and creamy. Courtney, another kitchen-loving mom over on the blog, inspired me to transform this humble ingredient into a rich, comforting dish that pleases the whole family.
If you like this Creamy Butter Beans recipe, please share it! It’s so simple but feels like a little bowl of indulgence, perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe hits the spot when you want something comforting, using real ingredients you probably already have. It’s a buttery, garlicky delight that elevates butter bean recipes with a creamy twist.
What is Creamy Butter Beans?
Creamy Butter Beans is a luscious dish made from tender butter beans cooked gently in a garlic butter sauce with a touch of cream and herbs. It’s an easy Butter Beans Recipe that brings comfort and richness without being fussy or complicated. This dish showcases the creamy texture of butter beans, making it a perfect side or even a main for bean lovers. It’s a great option if you’re exploring mixed beans recipes or want something that feels a bit special but is still totally approachable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked butter beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Strainer (if using canned butter beans)
- Serving bowl or dish
How to Make Creamy Butter Beans
Step 1:
If using canned butter beans, drain and rinse them well in a strainer.
Step 2:
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3:
Add the butter beans to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the butter and garlic.
Step 4:
Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5:
Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens slightly and the beans are heated through.
Step 6:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 7:
Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Some Tips!
- Use dried butter beans soaked and cooked for the best flavor and texture in dried bean recipes.
- For a vegan twist, swap butter for olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to brighten the richness.
- To make it a butter bean salad, cool the creamy beans and mix with chopped veggies and a light vinaigrette.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth that deepens the flavor without overpowering the beans.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy butter beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating.
What to Eat With
This creamy butter beans recipe pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like a rich butter bean curry or a classic French beans recipe for extra greens. It also complements baked beans recipe styles and can bring a creamy contrast to more robust bean dishes. Try it alongside Garlic&Herb Prime Rib Roast or as a cozy side to your favorite protein for a well-rounded meal.
FAQ
Can I use canned butter beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before cooking.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with olive oil.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild by default but you can add crushed red pepper flakes to taste for some heat.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and reheats nicely for up to 3 days.
Can I add other beans to make a mixed beans recipe?
Definitely, adding beans like cannellini or chickpeas can make a hearty mixed beans version of this creamy dish.
Conclusion
There’s something so satisfying about a dish that feels rich and comforting but comes together easily with simple ingredients. Creamy Butter Beans hits that sweet spot, turning pantry staples into a warm, buttery treat the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main, it’s a recipe that brings a little extra love to your table every time.
Creamy Butter Beans
Course: SidesDifficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
5
minutesCooking time
10
minutesCalories
230
kcalTotal time
15
minutesThis creamy butter beans recipe is rich, garlicky, and made with simple pantry ingredients. An easy, cozy side dish ready in minutes.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked butter beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Directions
- Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the butter beans and stir gently to coat them in the garlic butter.
- Pour in the cream, add smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, then simmer for 5–7 minutes until creamy and heated through.
- Remove from heat, adjust seasoning if needed, stir in parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Canned butter beans work perfectly—just rinse well before using.
For a dairy-free version, use olive oil and coconut cream.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the rich flavors.
Smoked paprika adds depth without overpowering the beans.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
