This Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet is pure comfort in a pan! It’s a one-skillet wonder loaded with creamy white beans, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach, all bathed in a rich, velvety sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a cozy dinner party. Serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside your favorite protein for a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Skillet Simplicity – Less cleanup, more flavor!
- Packed with Protein & Fiber – Thanks to those hearty white beans.
- Ultra-Creamy & Flavorful – A dreamy sauce with Tuscan-inspired ingredients.
- Versatile & Customizable – Enjoy it as a main dish or a side!
Ingredients
- White Beans – The heart of the dish, creamy and protein-packed.
- Garlic – Adds a fragrant, savory depth.
- Onion – Brings a touch of sweetness and flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A pop of tangy, umami goodness.
- Spinach – Wilts beautifully into the sauce for added nutrients.
- Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – For an extra creamy texture, consider using high-quality dairy like organic heavy cream..
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness and umami.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce’s depth.
- Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for Tuscan flair.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – A little heat (optional but recommended!).
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and richness.
- Lemon Juice – A touch of acidity to brighten everything up.
Exact measurements will be in the recipe card below!
How to Make the Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let them cook for a minute to release their flavors.
Step 3: Add the Beans & Broth
Toss in the white beans and pour in the broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and Parmesan cheese. Let it gently thicken into a luscious sauce.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach & Finish
Add the spinach and stir until just wilted. Squeeze in a little lemon juice for brightness.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use High-Quality Beans – Canned white beans are perfect, but drain and rinse them well.
- Coconut Milk for a Dairy-Free Version – Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free alternative.
- Let the Flavors Meld – Let the beans and sauce simmer together for a few extra minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon – A little acidity balances out the richness of the dish.
How to Serve
This dish is super versatile! Here’s how to enjoy it:
- With Crusty Bread – The best way to soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Over Pasta or Rice – Makes a complete and satisfying meal.
- As a Side Dish – Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.
- Topped with Extra Cheese – Because more Parmesan is always a good idea!
- Fresh Salad – Pair this rich and hearty skillet with a refreshing Cucumber Salad for a well-balanced meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak and cook them in advance before adding them to the skillet.
What type of white beans work best?
Cannellini beans are ideal, but great northern or navy beans work too.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat!
This Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet is a quick and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a main or side, it’s guaranteed to be a hit! Let me know how you serve yours!
Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 cups spinach fresh
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the white beans and heavy cream (or coconut milk). Let everything simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Toss in the spinach and stir until wilted. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, mixing well.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.