Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup carrot, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 cup spinach leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Ideas

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew because it's the perfect comfort food for chilly afternoons. The creamy texture and hearty flavors come together to create a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. I especially enjoy the warmth it brings, not only through its flavors but also as we gather around the table with loved ones. The combination of herbs and spices elevates the humble white beans, making this stew a true favorite in our household. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a single pot!

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:09:35.199Z

When I first tried making this stew, I was surprised at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. The secret is to simmer the white beans with a splash of vegetable broth, allowing them to absorb all the aromatic spices. I’ve found that using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary truly brings a delightful depth to the dish.

One particular Sunday, I made this stew for a gathering, and it was an absolute hit! Everyone loved the creamy texture, and I noticed they kept asking for the recipe. I love how it’s a versatile dish; you can add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for leftover nights.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich texture with comforting flavors
Healthy and hearty, packed with nutrition
Easily customizable with your favorite seasonal veggies

      

The Importance of the Base Ingredients

The foundation of this creamy white bean stew lies in its base ingredients, particularly the white beans. They are not just a source of protein but also lend a creamy texture that is central to the stew. I recommend using cannellini or great Northern beans for their smoothness and ability to absorb flavors well. Rinsing and draining them helps eliminate excess sodium that can be present in canned varieties, ensuring a purer taste in your finished dish.

In addition to the beans, the aromatic trio of onions, carrots, and celery, known as mirepoix, plays a crucial role in developing the stew's flavor profile. Sautéing these vegetables first allows their natural sugars to caramelize, releasing rich, savory notes that create a delicious base for the stew. Remember to sauté until the vegetables are just soft and fragrant, usually around five minutes before adding in the garlic to prevent burning.

Enhancing Creaminess and Flavor

While the stew is delightful as-is, incorporating heavy cream can elevate its creaminess. I recommend adding the cream at the end of the cooking process, as it creates a luxurious texture without curdling. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using unsweetened coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute. These alternatives can seamlessly blend in, offering a subtle flavor that complements the earthiness of the beans.

For those who love a bit of spice, incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can lend an intriguing depth to the flavor. I'll often add these during the simmer to allow the spices to bloom, enhancing the overall profile of the stew. Keep tasting throughout the process, as balancing the seasoning with salt and pepper towards the end can make all the difference.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep, as it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing the flavors to develop further. For longer storage, consider freezing portioned servings in airtight containers. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore consistency if it thickens too much.

When it comes to serving, I recommend pairing the stew with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the hearty dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving can also brighten the rich flavors, adding both color and freshness. Enjoying it with family and friends on a Sunday afternoon is truly a treat that represents comfort and togetherness.

Ingredients

Creamy White Bean Stew Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup carrot, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 cup spinach leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the stew slightly to achieve a creamy consistency while still leaving some whole beans for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer a portion of the stew to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.

Finish with Spinach and Cream

Stir in the spinach leaves and, if desired, the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For added texture, try tossing in some diced potatoes or butternut squash alongside the carrots. You can also adjust the spices to your taste by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your stew is too thick after blending, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it turns out to be too watery, simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes can help thicken it up by allowing excess liquid to evaporate.

Some may notice that their stew lacks depth of flavor after cooking. A splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar right before serving can brighten the dish and enhance the overall taste. This small adjustment can elevate the savory components and bring balance, especially if you're using low-sodium broth.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your stew with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly — softer vegetables like zucchini can be added in the last 10 minutes of cooking, while heartier options like sweet potatoes should be diced and added earlier.

For a more protein-packed dish, consider adding diced ham, cooked sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken towards the end of cooking. This not only creates a heartier meal but also allows you to utilize what you have on hand, making for a more resourceful cooking experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook separately before adding them to the stew.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you skip the heavy cream, the stew is completely vegan and still creamy with blended beans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.