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This hearty skillet of creamy butter beans has transformed my weeknight dinner routine. Rich, cheesy, and impossibly simple, these garlic parmesan butter beans deliver slow-cooked flavor in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when you crave something substantial without the wait.
I first made this dish during a particularly hectic week when I needed something quick but satisfying. My family was so impressed they thought I had spent hours in the kitchen, and now it appears on our table at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- Butter: Provides the rich foundation for our flavor base
- Garlic: Fresh minced cloves create an aromatic base that permeates the entire dish
- Italian seasoning: This herb blend saves time while delivering complex flavor
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness that complements the creamy elements beautifully
- Vegetable broth: Creates the perfect consistency while adding depth of flavor
- Cream cheese: The secret to achieving restaurant quality creaminess without heavy cream
- Butter beans: Also known as lima beans, these large creamy beans hold their shape while absorbing flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for best melting and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the Flavor Base:
- Heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until melted and slightly bubbling. Add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Allow the garlic to soften but not brown, about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma will become intensely fragrant when ready.
- Build the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in vegetable broth and add cream cheese in chunks for easier melting. Use a wooden spoon to press the cream cheese against the side of the pan to help it incorporate smoothly. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes completely uniform with no lumps remaining.
- Simmer the Beans:
- Add drained butter beans to the sauce, gently folding to coat every bean without crushing them. Reduce heat to medium low and allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. The sauce will gradually thicken as moisture evaporates, concentrating the flavors and creating a luxurious consistency.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Remove pan from heat and immediately sprinkle in the parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a glossy finish. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
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The first time I served this to my Italian grandmother, she asked for the recipe despite having cooked beans for over 70 years. The smoked paprika is actually the hidden star here, adding a subtle depth that makes people wonder what your secret ingredient might be.
Make Ahead and Storage
These beans actually improve with time as the flavors continue to develop. You can prepare the entire dish up to three days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water as the beans will continue to absorb liquid. The texture remains wonderfully creamy even after refrigeration, making this an excellent meal prep option.
Easy Variations
Transform this basic recipe by adding different ingredients to create entirely new meals. Stir in sautéed mushrooms and thyme for an earthy variation. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes that burst during cooking for a tangy twist. For a complete one pan dinner, fold in cooked chicken or shrimp in the final minutes of cooking. The creamy sauce works beautifully with nearly any protein addition.
Serving Suggestions
While substantial enough to serve as a main dish with crusty bread, these beans also shine as a hearty side. Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a complete vegetarian meal. Spoon over toasted sourdough for an elevated toast option. For dinner parties, present in a shallow serving dish with fresh herbs scattered on top, allowing guests to help themselves family style.
Common Queries
- → Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Soak and cook dried butter beans in advance, using about 3 to 3½ cups of cooked beans in place of canned.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic to introduce extra heat to the cream sauce.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives for this dish?
Yes, swap in plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese. Canned coconut milk and vegan parmesan are also great substitutes.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed for creaminess.
- → What vegetables can I add for extra nutrition?
Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking to boost nutrients and add color to the finished dish.