Imagine cozying up with a dish so creamy, rich, and packed with flavor that it practically begs for a second helping. These One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans are that kind of comfort food—a skillet full of buttery beans smothered in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce, with garlic, spinach, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. It’s hearty without being heavy, and indulgent without going over the top.

This dish brings restaurant-level luxury into your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or craving a solo cozy night in, it’s simple to throw together, easy to customize, and delicious enough to impress anyone. Plus, everything happens in one pot for easy cleanup, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans

Creamy, Dreamy Texture: Thanks to the rich sauce of cream, garlic, and parmesan, each butter bean becomes a flavor-packed bite.
Fast & Fuss-Free: Minimal chopping and one-pot cooking make it perfect for weeknights.
Plant-Based Protein: Butter beans offer a hearty, protein-rich base even meat lovers will enjoy.
Versatile: Add mushrooms, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies if you’re in the mood to mix things up.
Comfort in a Bowl: The cozy combination of garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes is deeply satisfying.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, get your tools in place. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Essential for holding all your ingredients without crowding. A wide base allows better sauce reduction.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the creamy sauce without scratching your pan.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Needed for chopping garlic and slicing sun-dried tomatoes.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Helps ensure you get the perfect ratio of cream, broth, and spices.
Colander: For draining your canned butter beans quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients for the One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans

Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that luscious, crave-worthy flavor:

Butter Beans (2 cans) – The star of the show! Their creamy texture holds up perfectly in this one-pot dish.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds deep, savory aroma and flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped) – Infuses the sauce with sweet-tangy depth.
Spinach (2 cups) – Wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding nutrients and a pop of green.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Helps thin the sauce slightly and deepen the flavor.
Heavy Cream (3/4 cup) – The base of the luxurious creamy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (1/3 cup, grated) – Melts in to create umami-rich creaminess.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon) – Optional, but recommended for a touch of heat.
Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste and bring it all together.

How To Make the One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Stir in the Butter Beans

Add the drained butter beans to the skillet and gently fold them into the sauce. Let them simmer for 5-7 minutes to soak up all that flavor.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Spinach

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Then add the spinach and stir until wilted.

Step 5: Season & Serve

Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Let the dish rest for 2 minutes, then serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

How to Serve and Store One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans

Serving Ideas: This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course with warm crusty bread, spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes or rice, or even pair it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. It also makes a delightful side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

Storing Tips: Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook them thoroughly first. Canned beans are more convenient and yield a creamy texture that complements the sauce perfectly.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based parmesan alternative.

What protein can I add to make it more filling?

Grilled chicken, sausage, or even crispy bacon crumbles make great additions if you want to up the protein.

Can I use kale instead of spinach?

Definitely. Kale adds a heartier green bite—just give it a few more minutes to soften in the sauce.

Will this work without sun-dried tomatoes?

You can skip them, but they really add a unique depth. If needed, substitute with roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and parmesan labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If these One Pot Marry Me Butter Beans warmed your soul, try these other cozy favorites:

Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a creamy-meets-crunchy delight.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps when you need melty, handheld comfort.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens for a lighter, herby bean variation.
One Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta if you love heat and bold flavor.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up? Add mushrooms or protein? Or keep it classic and creamy?

I love hearing how you personalize these dishes. Questions are welcome too—let’s cook smarter together!