Go Back

Creamy Southern Butter Beans

Creamy Southern Butter Beans are a comforting dish that combines tender beans with a luscious, velvety sauce, perfect for any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen butter beans (lima beans) Shell the beans if using fresh.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon butter For sautéing aromatics.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If you're using fresh butter beans, make sure to shell them first. For frozen beans, simply measure the desired amount.
Cooking
  1. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the butter beans to the skillet, stirring them into the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the beans are covered. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Once the broth is simmering, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly, for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season the beans with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Experiment with adding spices such as paprika or a dash of cayenne for some heat. Avoid overcooking the beans to maintain their texture; they should be tender but not mushy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.