Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 3 carrots, diced; 2 stalks of celery, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Every Sunday, I look forward to the cozy comfort of a warm bowl of creamy white bean stew. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, not only because it’s delicious but also because it’s incredibly simple to make. The combination of hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a meal that warms the soul. I love that I can make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy days. Let me take you through this delightful recipe!

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:55:10.672Z

I first stumbled upon this creamy white bean stew during a cooking class focused on hearty winter meals. The instructor emphasized the importance of slow-cooking the beans with fresh herbs to enhance the flavors, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. The method works flawlessly because the beans soak up all the delicious broth and seasonings, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. I often add in some seasonal veggies or even a splash of lemon for brightness, and the stew always turns out fantastic. It’s a dish that brings warmth not only to my kitchen but also to my heart!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms the soul
Packed with nutritious ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Role of White Beans

White beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, are the backbone of this creamy stew, providing both protein and fiber. Their mild flavor allows them to absorb the aromatic herbs and spices, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. When using canned beans, be sure to rinse and drain them well to remove excess sodium and improve their texture in the stew. If you're looking for a fresher option, you can cook dried beans in advance—just ensure they’re tender before adding them to the pot.

These beans also contribute to the stew’s creamy texture, which is further enriched by the heavy cream or coconut cream. This pairing not only makes the stew rich and satisfying but also adds a layer of indulgence without being overwhelming. For a lighter version, consider using a combination of low-fat dairy and vegetable broth to maintain creaminess while reducing calories.

Perfecting Your Technique

Sautéing the vegetables properly is crucial for building flavor at the base of your stew. Start with a medium heat to soften the onions and garlic before introducing the carrots and celery. This method allows the natural sugars in these vegetables to caramelize slightly, creating a sweet and rich flavor profile. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions are translucent and fragrant—approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can steam rather than sauté your vegetables.

When adding the beans and broth, give the mixture a gentle stir to incorporate everything evenly. Ideally, let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes—this allows flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it and adjust the heat if you see the stew boiling too vigorously; you want a gentle simmer for the best results. You can enhance the flavor even further by adding a splash of white wine during this step, allowing it to cook down and impart a subtle complexity.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this stew with crusty bread elevates the experience, allowing you to scoop up the creamy contents with ease. If you prefer something heartier, try serving it over rice or quinoa for increased texture and nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can add a vibrant touch just before serving. If you're feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors, cutting through the creaminess beautifully.

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers—this dish can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency, as it may thicken during storage. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious meal ready to go on busy days!

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
3 carrots, diced
2 stalks of celery, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Incorporate Greens and Cream

Add the chopped kale or spinach and the heavy cream to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5–10 minutes until the greens have wilted and the stew is heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the stew. You can also experiment with different beans or spices to suit your taste!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this stew dairy-free, coconut cream is an excellent alternative that will still provide a rich, creamy flavor. Just make sure to use full-fat coconut cream for the best results. For those who are sensitive to beans, try substituting with lentils, which can still deliver a good amount of protein and fiber but will require less cooking time—about 15 to 20 minutes in the simmering broth should suffice.

To enhance the nutritional content further, consider adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can toss them in after the initial sautéing step—they will add freshness and vibrant color to your dish. Don't fear experimenting with different herbs too; rosemary and basil could bring a unique twist to your creamy stew.

Make-Ahead Strategy

This stew is ideal for meal prep, so I often make a double batch to ensure I have plenty for busy days. Cook the stew according to the recipe and allow it to cool before storing. You can portion it into individual servings for easy access during the week. Just be mindful to mark containers with dates; this way, you'll know when it’s best consumed.

For optimal flavor, consider reheating your stew over low heat on the stovetop rather than in the microwave. This gentle reheating will help retain the creamy texture and ensure an even temperature throughout. If you're using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent hotspots or uneven heating.

Creating Variations

Once you've mastered the basic creamy white bean stew, the flavor possibilities are endless! If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. For a smoky flavor, introducing a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the stew into a more complex dish.

You might also try incorporating proteins like diced chicken or sausage if you’re looking for heartiness. Just sauté the proteins alongside the vegetables initially, ensuring they are cooked through before adding the beans and broth. This flexibility allows you to tailor the stew to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs while keeping the base recipe intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

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

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! You'll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand. This will require more time, but it enhances the flavor.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This creamy stew pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over cooked grains like quinoa or rice.