As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like cozying up with a warm and comforting bowl of soup or stew. And what better way to do so than with creamy butter beans? With their rich, velvety texture and subtle nutty flavor, butter beans are the perfect ingredient to add some depth and comfort to your meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 deliciously creamy butter bean recipes that will become staples in your kitchen for cozy nights in.
From hearty stews and chowders to flavorful curries and soups, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking to spice things up with some international flavors, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and let’s dive into the world of creamy butter beans!
Garlic Butter Bean Soup with Rosemary
This hearty soup combines the richness of garlic butter and creamy beans with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups cooked navy beans (or cannellini beans)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the cooked beans, diced tomatoes, rosemary, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Butter Bean and Spinach Curry
Creamy Butter Bean and Spinach Curry Recipe
A comforting and creamy curry that combines the richness of butter beans with the earthiness of spinach, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Drain butter beans and add to the pot; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes or until butter beans are tender.
7. Stir in fresh spinach leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Butter Bean and Chorizo Stew
Smoky Butter Bean and Chorizo Stew Recipe
This hearty stew combines the richness of butter beans with the spicy kick of chorizo, all wrapped up in a smoky flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 chorizos, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chorizo slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add butter beans, vegetable broth, and butter. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Butter Bean and Tomato Coconut Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the earthy sweetness of butter beans and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in butter beans, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Butter Bean Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of butter beans with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked butter beans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened butter, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Add the cooked butter beans, parsley, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until the beans are well coated with the butter mixture.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Butter Bean and Kale Pasta Bake
A comforting and nutritious twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines creamy butter beans with the earthy sweetness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in butter beans and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Butter Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty, one-pot chili is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, packed with protein-rich butter beans and nutritious sweet potatoes. A comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add butter beans, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Butter Bean and Bacon Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the creamy goodness of butter beans, crispy bacon, and a hint of smokiness from paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked butter beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Butter Bean and Olive Stew
Mediterranean Butter Bean and Olive Stew Recipe
This hearty stew combines the creamy richness of butter beans with the savory flavors of Kalamata olives, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the soaked butter beans, vegetable broth, sliced olives, and dried oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butter Bean and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy, comforting risotto infused with the rich flavors of butter beans and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the mushrooms, butter beans, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Butter Bean Hummus with Paprika
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of butter beans and the subtle smokiness of paprika to create a unique and delicious dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked butter beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine butter beans, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and paprika.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Serve at room temperature with your favorite dippers, such as pita chips or crudités.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (depending on blender speed)
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful hummus!
Butter Bean and Leek Gratin
Butter Bean and Leek Gratin Recipe
A rich and creamy side dish perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting main course.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh butter beans, shelled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
- Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine butter beans and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes.
- In a separate skillet, sauté leeks in butter until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 8×6-inch baking dish, arrange cooked butter beans in an even layer. Top with sautéed leeks and drizzle with heavy cream.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.
Herbed Butter Bean and Feta Tart
This elegant tart is perfect for a light lunch or dinner party. The combination of creamy beans, tangy feta, and fragrant herbs will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, and dill. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with cooked beans, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with a little water and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Butter Bean and Sausage Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound sausage (such as Andouille or Chorizo), sliced
• 1 can butter beans (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 slices of white bread, torn into pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add butter beans to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. In a separate bowl, toss bread with melted butter.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
8. Layer ingredients: sausage mixture, bread mixture, and repeat one more time.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Roasted Garlic and Butter Bean Dip
Roasted Garlic and Butter Bean Dip Recipe
Summary: A rich and creamy dip made with roasted garlic and butter beans, perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 can (15 oz) of butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold the foil to create a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted garlic, butter beans, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more olive oil if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
7. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika or chili flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people
Butter Bean and Pumpkin Coconut Curry
This creamy curry combines the comforting flavors of butter beans, pumpkin, and coconut milk, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon coconut oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in remaining coconut oil until softened.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, and roasted pumpkin to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and cooked butter beans. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Butter Bean and Sundried Tomato Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the creaminess of butter beans with the tanginess of sundried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add butter beans, sundried tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until butter beans are heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta and butter bean mixture in a serving bowl.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using) on top.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butter Bean and Caramelized Onion Stew
Butter Bean and Caramelized Onion Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of creamy butter beans, sweet caramelized onions, and savory spices. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir to combine.
4. Add butter beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Butter Bean and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of creamy butter beans, wilted spinach, and aromatic spices, making for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the butter beans and spinach; cook until the spinach has wilted.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean and spinach mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Butter Bean and Rosemary Focaccia
A savory twist on traditional focaccia, this recipe combines the creaminess of butter beans with the earthy flavor of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter beans, cooked and mashed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and mash butter beans to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary and honey.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 creamy butter bean recipes perfect for a cold winter’s night. From soups to salads, curries to casseroles, and dips to pasta bakes, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Bean Soup with Rosemary or Creamy Butter Bean and Spinach Curry for a comforting start. Alternatively, indulge in Smoky Butter Bean and Chorizo Stew or Spicy Butter Bean and Sweet Potato Chili for a heartier meal. Whichever recipe you choose, the creamy butter beans are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
