If you adore comforting, creamy dishes full of heart and flavor, you are going to fall head over heels for this Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe. Imagine tender butter beans swimming in a luscious, rich sauce enhanced by the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the freshness of vibrant spinach, and the nutty sharpness of freshly grated Parmesan. This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a stunning side that will wow your guests. Whether you’re vegetarian, looking for gluten-free options, or craving a dish that’s easy to veganize, this recipe ticks all the boxes and will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a variety of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center is a clear glass bowl full of fresh green spinach leaves with smooth, vibrant texture. To the right of the spinach, there is another clear glass bowl filled with large, smooth, light beige beans. Above the beans, there is a small white bowl with dried red chilies and beside it another white bowl with dried herbs that are green and finely chopped. Below the spinach, there is a small white bowl of a thick white liquid and a large triangular wedge of yellow cheese resting on a silver grater with a wooden handle. Around these main elements, there are small bowls and containers, including finely chopped purple onions in a brown wooden bowl, several whole garlic cloves in another brown wooden bowl, a pad of butter on a white dish, a bowl of light brown liquid, a small dish of red paste, and containers of white salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. The whole setting looks clean and organized. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, yet full of personality, the ingredients in this recipe are essentials that bring together a harmony of textures and flavors. Each element plays an important role from the silky butter beans to the fragrant herbs and vibrant greens, ensuring every bite is delightful and satisfying.

Olive oil or oil from the sun-dried tomato jar: Provides a fruity, rich base to sauté and deepen flavors.
Butter: Adds luscious creaminess and a velvety finish to the sauce.
Red onion, diced: Offers sweet, aromatic layers when softened.
Garlic, minced: Brings a punch of warmth and depth that is simply irresistible.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a rich, complex sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed and chopped: Introduce tangy sweetness and chewy texture.
Dried oregano: Infuses classic Italian herbaceous notes.
Dried basil: Adds subtle peppery and slightly sweet aromas.
Red pepper flakes: A hint of heat to awaken the palate without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all other flavors.
Chicken broth: Creates a savory, comforting liquid base to gently cook the beans.
Canned butter beans, drained and rinsed: The creamy star of the dish, tender and hearty.
Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant green color and a touch of earthiness.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce wonderfully silky and indulgent.
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Brings a sharp, nutty richness that ties the dish together beautifully.

How to Make Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil or sun-dried tomato oil with butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to shimmer. Add the diced red onion and cook gently until it softens and becomes translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes, releasing its sweetness and building a flavorful base.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Flavor

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Stir in the tomato paste and keep stirring for a minute to let it darken slightly, concentrating the tomato’s naturally rich essence.

Step 3: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs

Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the flavors meld together as you cook for another minute, inhaling that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Simmer with Beans and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth followed by the rinsed butter beans. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so the beans warm through and soak up all the wonderful flavors. Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, creating a luscious sauce base.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce by Mashing Beans

Using the back of a spoon, gently mash about half a cup of the beans right in the skillet against the side. This step naturally thickens the sauce, adding creamy texture without needing extra starch or flour, making the dish beautifully rich and hearty.

Step 6: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir occasionally just until it wilts, about 2 to 3 minutes. The vibrant green adds freshness and a slight bite, balancing out the creamy base perfectly.

Step 7: Finish with Cream and Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the cream has created a silky, well-blended sauce. Taste the dish now and add extra salt or black pepper if you feel it needs a boost.

How to Serve Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe

A black bowl filled with creamy stew that has big light brown beans, chopped green spinach, and small red bits of seasoning on top, sitting on a matching black plate. There is a long piece of light brown bread standing upright in the stew. The stew looks thick and is topped with grated white cheese and red chili flakes. In the background, there is a black pan filled with more of the same stew. Surrounding the bowl are small white dishes with different spices, and a glass of water with a slice of lemon. All this is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your plating with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the top—its sharpness is the perfect finishing touch. Fresh basil leaves also add a lovely burst of color and a fragrant, herbal nuance that complements the earthy and creamy flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe shines as a vegetarian main or a side. Pair it with warm garlic butter dinner rolls, crunchy garlic bread, or if you want something heartier, your favorite roasted or grilled protein like chicken, salmon, or steak.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the beans in rustic bowls for a cozy family meal or scoop them onto toasted baguette slices for an elegant bruschetta-style appetizer. Drizzle a little quality extra virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if you like an extra kick. Garnishing with edible flowers also makes for a stunning presentation to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld even more, so it tastes delicious when enjoyed cold or warmed up.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to make it in advance. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil, use a vegan cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful.

Are canned butter beans the best choice?

Canned butter beans are convenient and help speed things up, but if you prefer, you can use dried butter beans that have been soaked and cooked beforehand. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re tender.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes have a concentrated sweetness and chewiness that fresh tomatoes can’t replicate. You could use fresh diced tomatoes for a brighter taste but consider roasting or slow-cooking them first to intensify their flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe and satisfying option for those avoiding gluten.

What can I serve this with for a complete meal?

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, some crusty bread, and a protein like grilled chicken or fish to turn it into a well-rounded meal. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough to try the Tuscan “Marry Me” Butter Beans with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe as soon as possible. It is an absolute soul-soother that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it steals the show as a main dish or shines as a gourmet companion to your favorite sides, it will bring pure joy to your table every time. Once you make this, it’s bound to become one of those recipes you turn to again and again.