Hey friends, gather around! I’m sharing my Marry Me Butter Bean Pasta recipe, a dish that’s become a legend in my kitchen. It’s creamy, comforting, and so delicious it might just spark a proposal. Let’s dive into how I make this crowd-pleaser.

Why This Dish Steals the Show

I first whipped up this pasta on a whim, craving something rich yet simple. The creamy butter beans and Tuscan-inspired sauce hit all the right spots. It’s perfect for cozy nights or impressing someone special. Everyone who tries it begs for the recipe!

The Magic Behind the Name

The “Marry Me” moniker comes from a viral chicken dish so tasty it supposedly inspires proposals. I swapped chicken for butter beans to make it vegetarian. The result? A dish just as irresistible, with a velvety sauce that’s pure magic.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Here’s what I use to make this dish sing. Each ingredient is prepped with care to maximize flavor. Let’s break it down.

• Rigatoni (9 oz): Choose a short, ridged pasta like rigatoni. It grabs onto the creamy sauce perfectly. Cook al dente to keep some bite.
• Butter Beans (14 oz can, drained and patted dry): These creamy legumes are the star. Drain and pat dry to ensure they roast crisply. Rinse to remove excess sodium.
• Olive Oil (3 tbsp): A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness. Use it for roasting beans and sautéing aromatics. It ties the dish together.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, chopped): Packed in oil, these add tangy depth. Chop finely for even flavor distribution. Save a tablespoon of their oil for cooking.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic brings bold aroma. Mince finely or use a garlic press for maximum flavor. Don’t let it burn!
• Shallots (2, finely diced): Shallots offer a subtle sweetness. Dice them small for quick cooking. They melt into the sauce beautifully.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): This deepens the sauce’s umami. Cook it briefly to caramelize. It gives the dish a rich, red hue.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): For that luxurious texture, heavy cream is key. Substitute with coconut cream for a vegan twist. Stir gently to avoid curdling.
• Vegetable Broth (¾ cup): Adds savory depth to the sauce. Use low-sodium to control saltiness. Adjust quantity for desired sauce thickness.
• Baby Spinach (2 cups): Fresh spinach wilts quickly, adding color and nutrition. Rinse and pat dry before using. Add at the end to keep it vibrant.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): A hard cheese like Parmesan adds nutty flavor. Grate fresh for best taste. Use vegan Parmesan for plant-based diets.
• Fresh Basil (¼ cup, chopped): Basil brings a fresh, herby finish. Chop just before serving. It elevates the dish’s aroma.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): This adds a smoky warmth. Sprinkle over beans before roasting. It enhances the Tuscan vibe.
• Fennel Seeds (1 tsp, crushed): Crushed fennel seeds add a slight anise-like sweetness. Crush fresh for bold flavor. Use a mortar and pestle.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of oregano, thyme, and basil for classic Italian flair. Sprinkle sparingly to avoid overpowering. Check for freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp): For a subtle kick, these flakes add heat. Adjust to taste. Omit if spice-averse.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season lightly at each step. Taste as you go. Freshly ground pepper makes a difference.
• Lemon Wedges (for serving): A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish. Cut fresh wedges. Serve on the side for guests to add.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

No fancy gadgets required! I use a large skillet for the sauce, a baking sheet for roasting beans, and a pot for pasta. A blender or stick blender helps make the sauce smooth. Keep tongs, a wooden spoon, and a colander handy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Let me walk you through how I bring this dish to life. It’s straightforward but feels gourmet. Follow these steps for perfection.

Step 1: Roast the Butter Beans

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F. Toss the drained butter beans with 2 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, and crushed fennel seeds. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until lightly crisp. This gives them a delightful texture.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the beans roast, I boil the rigatoni in salted water. Cook it al dente, about 8–10 minutes, per package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Sauté diced shallots for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Next, I stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream, simmering for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

For that silky Marry Me Butter Bean Pasta sauce, I blend half the roasted beans with ¼ cup reserved pasta water, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt. Blitz until smooth. Stir this back into the skillet with the remaining beans and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

I toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Add spinach and basil, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, I add more pasta water.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil. I offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Pair with crusty bread or a green salad. It’s a meal that feels like a hug!

Why Butter Beans Shine

Butter beans, or lima beans, are the heart of this dish. Their creamy texture absorbs the sauce beautifully. Roasting them adds a slight crispness, making every bite interesting. They’re also packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full.

Nutritional Breakdown

This dish is as nourishing as it is tasty. A serving (about 1.5 cups) has roughly 450–500 calories, 20g protein, 22g fat, and 55g carbs. It’s high in fiber (10g) and provides vitamins A and C. Exact values depend on portion size and substitutions.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	450–500 kcal
Protein	20g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fiber	10g
Vitamin A	3000 IU
Vitamin C	20mg
Calcium	350mg
Iron	4mg

Tips for the Perfect Dish

I’ve learned a few tricks over time. Pat the beans dry before roasting to avoid steaming. Don’t skip the pasta water—it’s key for sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning at each step for balance.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Variations

Want to make it vegan? Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use vegan Parmesan. For gluten-free, choose lentil or chickpea pasta. Both versions are just as delicious and keep the dish inclusive.

Pairing Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp arugula salad. I love serving it with garlic bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of red wine, like a Chianti, complements the Tuscan flavors perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing isn’t ideal—the cream can separate and turn grainy.

Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

I’ve served this at countless gatherings, and it’s always a hit. The creamy sauce and hearty beans satisfy everyone, from picky eaters to foodies. It’s quick—ready in about 30 minutes—but tastes like you slaved all day.

Adding Your Own Twist

Feel free to experiment! I’ve added sautéed mushrooms for extra umami or swapped spinach for kale. Crushed walnuts add a nice crunch. Make it your own, but keep the core flavors bold.

The Social Media Buzz

This dish has taken social media by storm, and I get why. Posts on X rave about its creamy texture and bold flavors. TikTok videos show countless variations, proving its versatility. It’s a recipe that sparks joy.

My Personal Journey with This Recipe

The first time I made Marry Me Butter Bean Pasta, I was skeptical about beans in pasta. But one bite changed my mind. My family now requests it weekly, and it’s my go-to for impressing guests. It’s become a staple in my home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t overcook the pasta—it needs some bite to hold up to the sauce. Avoid burning the garlic; it turns bitter fast. And don’t skip roasting the beans—the texture makes the dish. Trust me, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to.

Making It a Meal Prep Star

This dish is great for meal prep. I portion it into containers for quick lunches. Just reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy. Add fresh basil before serving to revive the flavors.

Cultural Roots of the Dish

The “Marry Me” concept draws from Tuscan cuisine, with its love for sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauces. Butter beans add a modern, plant-based twist. It’s a nod to Italian comfort food with a fresh spin.

Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a date night, this dish delivers. It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions. The flavors are universally loved, making it a safe bet for any crowd.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Butter Bean Pasta is more than a meal—it’s an experience. It’s brought my family together and wowed my friends. Try it, and I bet it’ll become your new favorite too. Let me know how it goes!

FAQ

Can I use other beans instead of butter beans?
Yes, cannellini or Great Northern beans work well. They have a similar creamy texture. Just drain and rinse them thoroughly.

How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Start small and taste as you go. You can always add more!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook pasta fresh before serving. Combine and heat through.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor. Kids love the creamy sauce and tender pasta.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Use a tablespoon of tomato paste for similar depth. Fresh tomatoes won’t work as well. The tanginess is key.