Creamy One Pot Sundried Tomato White Beans

There’s something irresistibly cozy about gathering around a hearty meal after a long day. Imagine the aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes sizzling in the pan, wafting through your home and luring your loved ones to the kitchen. This dish not only offers comfort but also packs a nutritional punch, boasting nearly 15 grams of protein and tons of fiber per serving, thanks to those wonderful white beans. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze?

Print

Why This Creamy One Pot Sundried Tomato White Beans Never Fails

Sometimes, the simplest recipes become the most beloved staples in our cooking repertoire. This Creamy One Pot Sundried Tomato White Beans dish is exactly that—easy, quick, and endlessly satisfying. What sets it apart is its comforting creaminess, balanced with the zesty kick of chili flakes. It’s a meal that not only impresses the family but may even turn into a romantic declaration—yes, I’m talking about those tasty ‘Marry Me’ vibes! Trust me, one bite and everyone will be asking for seconds.

The Essentials

• 1 tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or red pepper flakes)
• 1/2 cup cream (regular heavy cream, sour cream or your favorite plant-based alternative)
• 2 cans of white beans (400g/14oz each)
• 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan, plus another 1 tablespoon to garnish
• 2 cups spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chili oil, to serve

Let’s Cook

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the sun-dried tomato oil in a high-sided pan over medium heat, then add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring, for about five minutes or until the onion is soft and starting to change color (it’ll look more transparent).
2. Add the crushed garlic cloves and stir through the onion.
3. Add ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or red pepper flakes. Stir, then pour in ½ cup of cream and stir again.
4. Add the white beans with their liquid (using the starchy bean juice is a great trick to create a luscious sauce—it’s like pasta water in that way—but if you want to drain your beans, you’ll need to add a little water to loosen up the sauce). Add ½ cup of grated parmesan, then stir again. Simmer the beans for about five minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Scatter your spinach leaves into the pan, then mix them through the beans (they’ll wilt and reduce in size drastically). Add a nice grind of black pepper and then taste, and add a little more salt if it needs it.
6. Finish by drizzling the chili oil all over the beans, then scatter over the remaining parmesan. Serve while hot, with fresh bread for mopping up the lovely sauce (no-knead chili cheese focaccia, no-knead rosemary parmesan bread or two-ingredient dough garlic flatbreads are great options).

A little pro tip: use the sun-dried tomato oil instead of olive oil for an extra depth of flavor from the start!

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving of these Creamy One Pot Sundried Tomato White Beans contains approximately 380 calories, with 15 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbohydrates, 16 grams of fat, and 12 grams of fiber. You’ll also be happy to know that it’s rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the spinach and tomatoes. With such a wholesome ingredient list, it’s hard not to feel good about this meal!

Perfect Pairings

This dish serves beautifully on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. For a cozy evening in, serve it alongside buttery garlic bread or a slice of your favorite artisanal sourdough. It’s particularly delightful during chilly evenings when comfort food is a must, bringing warm smiles to every face at the table.

How to Store It Right

To keep this dish fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, freeze the leftovers for up to three months. When reheating, a gentle simmer on the stove or a quick spin in the microwave works well—add a splash of water or cream if it appears too thick. Pro tip: add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan right before serving for that just-made taste!

Expert Tips

• For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the beans before adding them to the dish. This does wonders for the sauce!
• If you prefer a kick, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce right before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a vibrant, fresh contrast.
• Consider swapping out the spinach for seasonal greens like Swiss chard or even kale for a different twist.

Flavor Experiments

Feeling adventurous? Try these flavor twists:

• Seasonal Twist: Add a handful of roasted butternut squash cubes for a sweet, autumnal touch.
• Gourmet Flair: Introduce a splash of white wine just before adding the cream for a sophisticated flavor lift.
• Playful Variation: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto or a dollop of ricotta for a rich, herby surprise.

Learn from My Mistakes

Here are some common pitfalls and how you can avoid them:

• Mistake: Overcooking the spinach until it’s mushy. Fix: Add it in at the last moment to retain a bit of its bite.
• Mistake: Skipping the bean liquid for the sauce. Fix: Always include it for a creamy texture—it’s your secret weapon!
• Mistake: Cooking on too high of heat and burning the garlic. Fix: Stick to medium heat and keep stirring to avoid that bitter taste.

What to Do with Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, consider using them in one of these creative ways:

• Throw them into a wrap or pita with some fresh greens and enjoy a quick lunch on the go.
• Turn it into a savory pasta sauce by tossing it with your favorite cooked noodles—just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Quick Questions

What other beans can I use for this dish?

You can switch up white beans for chickpeas or cannellini beans for a different flavor and texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! Using cream or a plant-based alternative makes it suitable for vegetarians.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to three months. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more chili flakes, or even toss in some diced jalapeños to turn up the heat!