Creamy Tomato Beans is more than a dish; it’s a comfort food experience that brings warmth and flavor into every bite. If you’re craving something hearty, plant-based, and effortlessly delicious, this creamy tomato beans recipe checks all the boxes. At DeliceFlash, we’ve always believed in making recipes approachable and packed with soul. This one is no different. You can even learn more about our story and passion for food on our About page.
The following guide doesn’t just show you how to make creamy tomato butter beans but answers essential cooking questions like why red beans sometimes don’t turn creamy or how tomatoes interact with beans during cooking. Plus, we’ll explore popular queries people also search for, such as “Tomato Beans Heinz” and “Creamy spicy tomato beans and greens.” Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, these creamy cannellini beans will soon be a staple.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why This Creamy Tomato Beans Recipe Is a Must-Try
The Magic of Cannellini Beans and Tomatoes
Cannellini beans are the perfect creamy base because of their mild flavor and velvety texture. When combined with tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, they absorb a tangy richness that’s irresistible.
Nutritional Benefits of Creamy Tomato Beans
Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats (thanks to olive oil and coconut milk), this dish fits vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets perfectly. It’s also low-cost, making it ideal for families.
Don’t miss our Green Goddess Quinoa Salad Recipe for another plant-based favorite.
Check out this inspiration from The New Baguette to elevate your vegan dishes further.
The Ultimate Creamy Tomato Beans Recipe You’ll Fall in Love With
These Creamy Tomato Beans are rich, comforting, and loaded with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, coconut milk, and garlic. A quick and satisfying plant-based dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 medium white onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
- Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Two 15-ounce cans cannellini beans (or other white beans)
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Half a 13-ounce can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk (just shy of 1 cup)
- 6 sun-dried tomato halves, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- Fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion with a pinch of salt and sauté, stirring often, until soft and translucent (5 to 7 minutes).
- While the onions cook, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. Set aside.
- Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and chili flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to release the aromatics.
- Add the beans to the skillet. Use a potato masher or large fork to mash roughly half of the beans.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Season generously with black pepper and stir everything together.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili as desired. Serve warm with fresh basil.
Notes
- Use any white beans you prefer, such as navy beans or great northern beans.
- Coconut milk adds creaminess, but you can sub with oat cream or cashew cream if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or rice for a full meal.
- Add sautéed greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Ingredients That Make This Recipe Unforgettable
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Butter Beans
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 medium white onion, finely diced
- Fine sea salt + freshly ground black pepper
- Two 15-ounce cans cannellini beans (or other white beans)
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Half a 13-ounce can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
- 6 sun-dried tomato halves, finely chopped
- Fresh basil, for serving
Discover great ideas like our Roasted Chickpea Kale Wraps to pair with these creamy beans.
Learn more about flavor layering with Dr. Vegan Blog.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results
Prepping Your Ingredients the Right Way
Dice onions finely, rinse beans thoroughly, and chop sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor release.
Cooking Process to Achieve Creaminess
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion with salt until translucent.
- Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and chili flakes. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Add beans; mash half using a potato masher.
- Pour in coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, and pepper. Simmer on low, covered, for 10 minutes.
Expert Tips for Creamy Tomato Beans Success
Why Are My Red Beans Not Creamy?
Hard water or acidic ingredients can keep beans from softening. Always pre-soak dried beans and cook them before adding tomatoes.
Do Tomatoes Keep Beans from Softening?
Yes, their acidity can hinder cooking. That’s why we use canned beans here.
Creative Variations of This Recipe
Make It Spicy with Greens
Try adding kale or spinach for a “creamy spicy tomato beans and greens” twist.
Rosemary White Beans With Frizzled Onions and Tomato
Elevate your dish by topping it with crispy onions and fresh rosemary.
Pairings and Serving Ideas
What to Serve With Creamy Tomato Butter Beans
Serve over toasted sourdough, steamed rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Make Cannellini Beans More Interesting
Incorporate lemon zest, roasted garlic, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
How to Reheat Without Losing Creaminess
Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.
People Also Search For – Related Recipes and Trends
- Tomato Beans Heinz adaptations for a quick version
- Recette butter beans variations popular in French cuisine
- White beans vegan recipe inspirations from Mediterranean cooking
- Creamy white bean tomato soup as a cozy winter alternative
- White bean recipes with global flavor profiles
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Creamy Tomato Beans and adapt them to your taste, why not bring them to your next family dinner? Their versatility and depth of flavor make them a hit for any occasion. Looking for inspiration? Try our Creamy Mushroom Chicken for another comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make creamy tomato butter beans?
Follow our step-by-step recipe for creamy results every time.
Why are my red beans not creamy?
Acidity from tomatoes can delay softening; cook beans fully first.
Do tomatoes keep beans from softening?
Yes, acidic environments slow down bean cooking.
How to make cannellini beans more interesting?
Add herbs, spices, or even a lemon tahini drizzle for complexity.