Tuscan "Marry Me" Butter Beans Recipe - Italian Comfort Food
These Tuscan-inspired butter beans are the perfect comfort dish, featuring rich, creamy beans bathed in a savory, garlicky tomato sauce with herbs and a touch of Parmesan. Simple yet bursting with flavor, this dish is often said to be “marriage proposal worthy” for its irresistible taste. It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad, and get ready to watch your guests fall in love!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Create the Sauce. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the Butter Beans. Gently add the drained butter beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the beans are warmed through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finish with Cheese. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, which will add a creamy, rich texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Recipe tips
If you like a thicker sauce, mash a few of the beans in the pan before adding the Parmesan. For extra color and nutrition, stir in some fresh spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Use sun-dried tomatoes along with crushed tomatoes for a deeper flavor profile. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Fresh oregano and basil will add even more aroma to the dish.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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