Cozy nights are the perfect excuse to break out the comfort foods, and few ingredients evoke a sense of warmth and security like butter beans. These versatile legumes can be used in a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews and curries to creamy dips and indulgent casseroles. And when you add rich and velvety butter to the mix, the result is truly irresistible.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these 20 creamy butter bean recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic pairings like chorizo and rosemary to unexpected combinations like kale and vegan pasta, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, grab a blanket, and get ready to cozy up with some of the most comforting and delicious dishes you’ve ever tasted.
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Garlic Butter Bean Soup with Rosemary
A comforting and aromatic soup perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the richness of butter beans with the pungency of roasted garlic and the herbaceousness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add butter beans, vegetable broth, and rosemary leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Butter Bean and Spinach Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of creamy texture and vibrant green color, featuring butter beans and spinach as the main stars. It’s an easy and satisfying vegetarian dish that can be served with rice or naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked butter beans, coconut milk, and salt; bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until the butter beans are tender.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with your choice of accompaniment.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Butter Bean and Chorizo Stew
A hearty, smoky stew that combines the creamy richness of butter beans with the spicy kick of chorizo. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can butter beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove chorizo with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave drippings in the pot.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add butter beans, chicken broth, and browned chorizo back into the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
7. Stir in softened butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Butter Bean and Tomato Braised Chicken
A rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy butter beans and sweet tomatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked butter beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked butter beans, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Bean Dip
Lemon Garlic Butter Bean Dip: A Bright and Zesty Twist on Classic Hummus
This refreshing dip combines the creaminess of butter beans with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite snacks or as a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine butter beans, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add softened butter and blend until fully incorporated.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil. Continue blending until the dip is creamy and emulsified.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve at room temperature with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Butter Bean and Kale Vegan Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the creaminess of butter beans with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a flavorful vegan sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the butter beans, kale, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the kale has wilted and the flavors have melded together.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the bean and kale mixture. Toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Butter Bean and Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry combines the creaminess of butter beans with the warmth of spices and the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a comforting meal or a flavorful addition to your meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add butter beans, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butter Bean and Bacon Casserole
A comforting, flavorful casserole that combines the creamy richness of butter beans with the smoky savory taste of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the crumbled bacon and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the butter beans, cheddar cheese, and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Butter Bean Mash with Roasted Garlic
This rich and savory side dish is perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to a hearty bowl of soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked butter beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see below for roasting instructions), mashed
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Roast the Garlic:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender. Squeeze out the soft garlic flesh into a bowl.
Mash the Bean Mix:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked butter beans, softened butter, mashed roasted garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Butter Bean and Sausage One-Pot
This comforting one-pot dish combines the creamy texture of butter beans with the savory flavor of sausage, all in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the butter beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the sausage to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mediterranean Butter Bean Salad with Feta
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creamy texture of butter beans with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked butter beans
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked butter beans, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
2. Add the minced garlic and mix well.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Butter Bean and Mushroom Risotto
Butter Bean and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of butter beans with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a comforting risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in garlic, butter beans, and white wine (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooker Butter Bean and Ham Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy butter beans, tender ham, and aromatic spices, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried butter beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the butter beans, ham, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to your slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Butter Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy butter beans, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. A delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and simmer away on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the butter beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Creamy Butter Bean Hummus with Paprika
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional hummus, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of butter beans with the smoky heat of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked butter beans
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine butter beans, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil and paprika. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Add the water and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Butter Bean and Leek Gratin
A rich and comforting side dish that combines the sweetness of butter beans with the subtle onion flavor of leeks, all wrapped up in a creamy gratin. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté leeks in butter until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add butter beans and stir to combine with leeks. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
5. Pour heavy cream over the top, then sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish with thyme leaves, if using. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Butter Bean and Tuna Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of butter beans, the savory flavor of tuna, and a zesty lemon dressing for a delightful twist on traditional tuna salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (5 ounce) can tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine butter beans and tuna.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the butter bean and tuna mixture, and gently toss to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and chill time included)
Butter Bean and Pumpkin Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry combines creamy coconut milk with the richness of butter beans and roasted pumpkin, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its subtle spices and aromatic flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin with 2 tablespoons water and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook 1 minute.
3. Add butter beans, roasted pumpkin, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Butter Bean and Herb Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy richness of butter beans with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine butter beans, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of peppers during last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Butter Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
A savory tart that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creamy richness of butter beans, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup cooked butter beans
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the cooked butter beans over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Place the caramelized onions on top of the butter beans, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the crust with the melted butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these deliciously creamy butter bean recipes! From soups to stews, curries to casseroles, and even dips and salads, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Bean Soup with Rosemary or Creamy Butter Bean and Spinach Curry for a comforting start. Spice things up with Spicy Butter Bean and Coconut Curry or add some smokiness with Smoky Butter Bean and Chorizo Stew. Whether you’re in the mood for vegan pasta or braised chicken, there’s a butter bean recipe to satisfy your cravings.