Description
This Creamiest White Beans recipe features tender cannellini beans cooked to perfection with garlic, thyme, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, then enriched with cream and Parmesan for a luxurious, velvety texture. Perfect as a comforting side dish or versatile topping, it’s a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s simple to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini or Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat to prepare the base for cooking the aromatics.
- Sauté the onion: Add the finely chopped small yellow onion to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent, creating a flavorful foundation.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme leaves, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute to release their fragrant aromas.
- Add beans and broth: Pour in the drained and rinsed beans along with 1/2 cup of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a simmer uncovered.
- Simmer and mash beans: Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently mashing some beans with the back of a spoon to create a creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Incorporate cream and cheese: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk and the optional 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan. Continue simmering for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens and is heated through.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors, adjusting seasoning to your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving for added freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- For extra creaminess without dairy, blend one-third of the beans with the broth before adding them to the pot.
- These creamy white beans make a versatile dish perfect as a side, a topping on toast, or served beneath roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
