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) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Ideas

I love cozy Sundays, especially when I can spend a few hours in the kitchen preparing a comforting dish. This creamy white bean stew quickly became my go-to recipe as it’s not only simple but filled with wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for lazy afternoons. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use pantry staples. I often pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying weekend dinner that warms the heart.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:18:40.362Z

Making this creamy white bean stew has become a cherished weekend ritual for me. I remember the first time I made it, I was surprised at how easily the layers of flavor came together. The combination of garlic, onion, and fresh herbs makes this dish incredibly fragrant right from the stovetop.

One trick I've found is to let the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting time allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. I can never resist serving it with a drizzle of olive oil on top for an extra touch of richness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that delights your palate
Loaded with nutritious ingredients for a wholesome meal
Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners

The Importance of Creaminess

The creamy texture of this stew is what makes it feel especially indulgent. Using heavy cream not only enriches the flavor but also helps to bind the ingredients together, resulting in a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a plant-based version. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the final taste.

When adding the heavy cream, do so gently to avoid curdling. Allow the stew to cool slightly before incorporating the cream for the best results. This technique allows the cream to blend seamlessly, giving the stew that signature richness without any grainy texture.

Ingredient Synergy

The combination of white beans, vegetables, and aromatics creates a nutrient-dense meal full of fiber and vitamins. White beans are particularly valuable here as they provide not only protein but also a creamy base that complements the other ingredients. Their mild flavor allows the aromatic garlic and thyme to shine, ushering in layers of delightful taste with every spoonful.

For a varied flavor profile, consider adding in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. This will not only boost the nutritional value but also add a vibrant green color to the dish. Stir it in during the last 5 minutes to ensure it retains some of its structure and nutrition.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy white bean stew is wonderfully versatile, making it an excellent dish to accompany with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew, while crusty bread is perfect for dipping. Consider slicing the bread diagonally and toasting it lightly for a crunch that complements the stew’s creamy base.

While this stew can be a hearty meal on its own, you can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice. This not only stretches the servings but also introduces a delightful texture variation, making each bite an adventure.

Ingredients

For the Stew

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

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Garlic and Thyme

Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Beans and Broth

Mix in the white beans and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Creamy Finish

Stir in the heavy cream and let the stew cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this stew stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture. If it appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Variations

Feel free to customize this stew to your taste preferences! For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and thyme. Alternatively, you can mix in some diced tomatoes for a tangy twist, adding a different layer of flavor and visual appeal.

If you're looking to balance the creaminess, consider topping the finished stew with crispy bacon bits or toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the overall flavors, giving it a vibrant finish.

Common Issues and Solutions

One common issue when making creamy stews is curdling the cream, especially if added too aggressively or if the stew is boiling. To avoid this, ensure you've lowered the heat before incorporating the cream and stir gently until fully blended. If curdling does occur, blending the stew with an immersion blender can help restore a smooth consistency.

Another potential pitfall is seasoning. Remember to taste as you go; you may need to adjust salt and pepper based on the type of vegetable broth used. A broth with low sodium may require more seasoning compared to a salty variety. Adjust gradually to achieve the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew stores well and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I use other beans?

Yes, feel free to substitute with other beans like cannellini or chickpeas.