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Creamy Butter Beans with Leeks

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Creamy butter beans with tender leeks, fragrant rosemary, and a rich, savory cream sauce make a comforting one-pan dish that is simple yet flavorful. Perfect served with crusty bread or over grains for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 large leek, trimmed and sliced

1/2 tbsp butter

1/2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp minced garlic

2 x 400 g tins butter beans, drained (about 480 g or 2 1/2 cups)

175 ml vegetable stock

A few sprigs fresh rosemary

75 ml single cream

50 g grated vegetarian parmesan-style cheese or pecorino

Black pepper, to taste

Salt, to taste if needed

Instructions

  1. Trim the leek and wash it thoroughly to remove any grit. Cut it in half lengthwise and slice it into thin pieces.
  2. In a large frying pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the sliced leek and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the drained butter beans, vegetable stock, and rosemary sprigs to the pan.
  6. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until the beans are heated through and tender.
  7. Pour in the cream, then add the grated cheese and a generous amount of black pepper.
  8. Stir well and simmer gently for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
  9. Taste and season with salt if needed.
  10. Remove the rosemary sprigs and serve warm.

Notes

  • Add a pinch of chili flakes with the garlic for a little heat.
  • Rosemary can be replaced with thyme or sage for a different flavor.
  • Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for extra greens.
  • Serve with crusty bread, toasted sourdough, rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a heartier meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock if the sauce thickens.
  • Freezing is possible, though the creamy sauce may slightly change texture after thawing.

Nutrition