This recipe happened on accident. The best ones usually do.

I was craving something warm and comforting, but not heavy. Something spoonable. Something that felt like it belonged in a candle-lit kitchen even though it was a random Tuesday.

Butter beans were already in the pantry. Sun-dried tomatoes sat half-forgotten in the fridge. Cream, garlic, parmesan—always within reach.

As the garlic hit the pan, I remember thinking, okay, we’re onto something. Then the tomatoes went in, sweet and tangy, followed by cream that slowly turned everything silky.

The butter beans soaked it all up like they were born for this job. Soft, plush, almost luxurious.

I tasted it standing at the stove. Then again with bread. Then again because… well, obviously.

By the time I served it, someone said, “This is marry-me good,” and the name stuck.

This is comfort food with a little confidence. Cozy, yes—but also bold enough to steal the spotlight.

Recipe Resume (Why You’ll Love It)

Creamy without effort
One pan magic
Big flavor, simple pantry
Vegetarian comfort
Spoonable perfection
Weeknight elegant
Crowd-pleasing
Bread-required

Why This Marry Me Butter Beans Is The Only One You’ll Ever Need

The first time I made this, I expected leftovers. There were none.

My partner scraped the pan with bread, then asked if it would be weird to lick the spoon. (It wasn’t.)

What makes this marry me butter beans recipe special is how humble ingredients turn into something that feels… indulgent. The beans are soft and comforting, the sauce rich but balanced, and the sun-dried tomatoes bring that sweet-savory punch that keeps you going back.

It’s become our “no plans, stay in, light a candle anyway” dinner.

Cuisine: American with Italian-inspired flavors

What You Really Need to Make This Amazing Marry Me Butter Beans (Simplified)

Butter beans (canned or cooked)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic cloves
Sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
Heavy cream
Vegetable broth
Red pepper flakes
Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley

How to Master the Perfect Marry Me Butter Beans (My Secret Method)

Start with a wide pan and warm olive oil. Add the garlic and let it soften gently—no rushing here. When it smells sweet and cozy, you’re ready.

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them warm through. They’ll release their oils and deepen the flavor right away.

Pour in the cream and broth, stirring slowly. Let it bubble gently until it thickens slightly. This is when the sauce starts to feel luxurious.

Add the butter beans and fold them in carefully. They’re tender, so treat them kindly. Let everything simmer together until the beans are warmed through and the sauce clings to them.

Finish with parmesan, a pinch of chili flakes, and cracked pepper. Taste. Adjust. Taste again—always again.

Turn off the heat and shower with herbs. Serve immediately with bread, because you’ll want every drop.

Chef’s Notes and Tips For A Flawless Marry Me Butter Beans

Use good sun-dried tomatoes. Oil-packed ones melt into the sauce and add richness without bitterness.

Don’t boil the sauce aggressively. Gentle heat keeps the cream smooth and prevents splitting.

Get Creative! Easy Substitutions and Fun Variations

Add spinach or kale at the end for a green boost.

Serve over pasta, spoon onto toast, or pair with roasted chicken or salmon if you want to add protein.

White beans or cannellini beans work beautifully if butter beans aren’t available.

Lighten It Up! Simple Swaps for a Healthier Marry Me Butter Beans

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or cashew cream.

Reduce parmesan slightly and boost flavor with extra herbs and lemon zest.

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with dairy-free cream and cheese.

Closing

And there you have it—Marry Me Butter Beans that are rich, cozy, and just dramatic enough to live up to the name. If you make them, tell me. If someone proposes after eating them… also tell me. And don’t forget to check out a few more of our favorite cozy dinners.

Are You Curious About Anything Else? Take a Look at the Most Frequently Asked Questions We Get About This Recipe

Why are they called Marry Me Butter Beans?

The name comes from the idea that the dish is so good it could inspire a marriage proposal—just like the classic “Marry Me Chicken.”

In this vegetarian marry me recipe, the creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan create the same irresistible effect without meat. It’s rich, comforting, and memorable, which is exactly what people associate with “marry me” dishes.

Can I make Marry Me Butter Beans vegan?

Absolutely, and they’re still incredible.

Use plant-based cream (cashew cream works beautifully), vegan parmesan, and olive oil instead of butter. The sun-dried tomatoes and garlic carry most of the flavor, so nothing feels missing.

What can I serve with creamy butter beans with sun-dried tomatoes?

Crusty bread is non-negotiable for most people.

Beyond that, this pairs well with roasted vegetables, simple salads, or even spooned over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, and it reheats well.

The sauce thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen it back up.

Are butter beans the same as lima beans?

They’re closely related, but butter beans are typically larger and creamier.

Their soft texture is what makes this one pan marry me beans recipe so luxurious.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat gentle and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

If reheating, do it slowly and stir often to maintain that silky texture.

Is this dish filling enough for dinner?

Surprisingly, yes.

Butter beans are rich in fiber and protein, making this an easy creamy butter beans dinner that feels satisfying without being heavy.

Can I freeze Marry Me Butter Beans?

Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces may change texture slightly.

If freezing, reheat gently and whisk to bring the sauce back together for best results.