20-Minute Creamy Garlic Parmesan Butter Beans (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
02 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
04 - ½ tsp ground black pepper
05 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL)
07 - 4 oz cream cheese (113 g)
08 - 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained (425 g each)
09 - ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (40 g)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large sauté pan or medium pot, melt 2 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until garlic becomes soft and fragrant, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
02 - Stir in vegetable broth and cream cheese, ensuring the cream cheese fully melts. Add the drained butter beans and let simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
03 - Stir in shredded parmesan cheese and serve the dish warm.

# Additional Notes:

01 - To make this dish spicier, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic and seasonings.
02 - Dried butter beans can be used if soaked and cooked ahead of time. Replace with 3 to 3½ cups of cooked beans.
03 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain the creamy sauce.
04 - For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based butter and cream cheese or canned coconut milk. Vegan parmesan can replace traditional parmesan.
05 - For added nutrients, stir in fresh spinach or kale before serving.