Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I often find myself craving a warm, hearty stew that makes Sunday feel special. The creamy texture of this white bean stew combined with fresh herbs is an ultimate comfort food that brings family and friends together. With just a handful of ingredients, it not only warms my soul but also nourishes the body. Each bite of this stew transports me to a cozy kitchen filled with inviting aromas. The subtle spices and the buttery beans create a delightful symphony of flavors that are perfect for a leisurely weekend meal.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:40:10.497Z

When I first made this creamy white bean stew, I was amazed at how rich and satisfying it was with so few ingredients. The key to its lusciousness is allowing the beans to simmer gently, soaking up the flavors of garlic and herbs. I quickly realized that using fresh rosemary and thyme elevates the stew, making it fragrant and inviting.

One of my favorite tricks is to blend a portion of the stew until smooth, then stir it back in. This not only thickens the stew beautifully but also gives it a velvety texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms the soul
Nutritious and packed with plant-based protein
Irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen

      

Unpacking the Ingredients

The foundation of this creamy white bean stew relies on the balance of its key ingredients. White beans not only offer a rich, buttery texture but also provide a significant source of plant-based protein and fiber, perfect for a comforting meal. While canned beans are convenient and save time, soaking and cooking dry beans can enhance the stew’s flavor profile, offering a creamier texture and a fresh taste if you're willing to plan ahead.

Herbs like thyme and rosemary are essential as they bring depth and aromatic qualities to the stew. When adding these dried herbs, consider crushing them between your fingers before sprinkling them in. This release of essential oils maximizes their flavor impact. If fresh herbs are available, they can be a fantastic substitute, providing a brighter taste that can really elevate the overall experience of the dish.

Mastering the Creaminess

Achieving the perfect creamy consistency for this stew is primarily accomplished through the blending process. Using an immersion blender allows you to control how smooth the stew becomes. For a more rustic feel, blend only half of the mixture and leave some beans whole. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer part of the stew to a blender, but be cautious when blending hot liquids as they can splatter.

Another way to enhance the creaminess is through the heavy cream. If you're seeking a lighter alternative, coconut cream or a cashew cream can offer a similar richness without dairy. Just remember that coconut cream will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which can be a delightful twist if you enjoy those notes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all your ingredients and get ready to create a comforting dish!

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the beans

Add the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Blend for creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend a portion of the stew until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. This will create a creamy texture.

Finish the stew

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Allow it to heat through for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm, creamy stew!

Serve hot with crusty bread for an ultimate comfort meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions. This subtle heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy beans.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing the creamy white bean stew is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, maintaining its flavor and texture. If you prefer, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure you leave enough headspace in the container, as soups and stews can expand during freezing.

When reheating, it's best to do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If you encounter a thicker consistency after refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to do so in intervals to avoid boiling over.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a flaky biscuit that can soak up the creamy broth. To make the meal even heartier, consider serving it alongside a simple side salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Adding fresh greens will not only complement the stew but also bring a freshness that balances the dish perfectly.

If you're looking to add more variety, consider topping the stew with roasted vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese can also introduce a savory tang, enhancing the overall experience of this delightful stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This will require additional time.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free version.

→ How long does the stew keep in the fridge?

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.