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 (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Collection

I love nothing more than gathering around the table with loved ones, and this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew is the perfect dish to share. The rich, velvety texture combined with the hearty beans makes for a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a comforting hug. With fragrant herbs and a hint of garlic, every spoonful is bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make and ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends on a chilly day. You won't want to miss out on this creamy delight!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:51:36.186Z

When I first tried this creamy white bean stew, I knew it was a game-changer for my Sunday dinners. I love how the beans simmer to a perfect consistency, creating a luxurious broth that's easy to make yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Adding fresh herbs right at the end enhances the flavor profile beautifully, making it refreshing and aromatic.

To take the stew to the next level, I recommend using high-quality vegetable broth and sautéing the garlic until it’s just golden. This gives the dish a deeper, richer taste that pairs perfectly with crusty bread. You'll find simple tweaks like these can elevate even the most straightforward recipes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, dreamy texture that warms the soul
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any occasion
Packed with plant-based protein for a nutritious meal

      

Understanding White Beans

White beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern, are the star players in this stew. They not only provide a creamy texture but also a substantial amount of protein and fiber, making this dish hearty and nutritious. Cooking with white beans enhances the dish's velvety mouthfeel while absorbing the flavors of the broth and herbs around them. Selecting high-quality canned beans can save time; however, if you prefer to use dried beans, be sure to soak and cook them beforehand until they are tender.

The addition of thyme not only complements the beans but also elevates the overall flavor profile of the stew. It’s a forgiving herb that marries beautifully with the creamy components, making each spoonful aromatic and savory. If you find yourself without thyme, consider substituting with fresh oregano or a hint of rosemary, adjusting quantities to taste as these herbs have stronger scents. Fresh herbs can intensify flavors, so add them towards the end of cooking.

Textural Variations

This recipe calls for a partial blending of the stew to achieve its creamy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier stew, blend only half of the mixture for a more rustic texture. You can also use a fork or the back of a spoon to mash some beans against the pot, which offers an alternate technique to achieve creaminess without a blender. Monitor your blending process closely; aim for a mix that combines both blended and whole beans to maintain visual appeal and texture diversity.

For a heartier version, consider adding diced potatoes or butternut squash when sautéing the vegetables. Both options will cook down to a delightful tenderness, adding more body to the stew. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also create a satisfying experience as you scoop each bite. Keep an eye on the cooking time if you decide to add denser vegetables, as they will require additional simmering to achieve the desired softness.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving this creamy white bean stew with crusty bread elevates the meal, perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich flavors. You might also serve it over rice, which adds a hearty base and makes the dish even more filling. Feel free to use a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor before serving. For a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or serving with a side of spicy pickles to contrast the creaminess.

The stew can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you want to freeze the stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency if necessary, as it will thicken when stored. Enjoying leftovers encourages the flavors to deepen, making the stew even more delicious the next day!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything ready, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful stew that everyone will love!

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, partially blend the stew to your desired creaminess, leaving some beans whole for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer part of the stew to a regular blender and return it to the pot.

Finish the Stew

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice!

Now that your stew is ready, serve it up and enjoy the warm flavors!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating diced potatoes or kale for extra nutrients. You can also adjust the seasoning according to your preferences, experimenting with herbs like rosemary or oregano.

Perfect Pairings

Pairing this creamy white bean stew with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables can create a balanced and colorful meal. A simple vinaigrette over crisp greens can cut through the creaminess of the stew, offering a refreshing contrast. You could also consider garnishing the stew with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish.

For a complete dining experience, enjoy with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which match well with the dish's herbal notes. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lemon can provide a similar refreshing effect, cleansing the palate between bites.

Variations and Add-Ins

This Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew is a fantastic base for many variations. For a boost in nutrition, toss in a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to wilt without sacrificing their nutrients. Alternatively, a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast can enhance the cheesy flavor without the dairy if you're looking for vegan alternatives.

If you enjoy a bit of a kick in your stew, add minced jalapeños during the sauté stage or stir in a spoonful of harissa paste at the end. These additions can introduce a delightful heat, lending complexity to the dish's rich and creamy base while keeping its soul-warming qualities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and it will last up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based creamy alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.