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; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Cooking

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew when the weather turns chilly. It brings such warmth and comfort, making each spoonful a delightful experience. The creamy texture of the white beans combined with fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. I often serve it with crusty bread, which perfectly complements the stew. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:29:35.090Z

When I first made this stew, I was looking for a dish that would not only satisfy my hunger but also offer a rich flavor profile. The combination of garlic, thyme, and rosemary infuses the beans with an irresistible aroma. I remember the first time I served it at a family gathering; there wasn't a single bowl left untouched!

One tip I've learned is to use quality vegetable broth as the base—it elevates the stew significantly. Additionally, stirring in a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors wonderfully. It’s a recipe I love to share, especially on lazy Sundays.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms your soul
Packed with nutritious white beans and vegetables
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving that luxurious creamy texture is key to elevating this stew. By blending part of the stew, you not only enhance the creaminess but also create a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky textures. If you're using a traditional blender, blend just half and return it to the pot immediately to avoid cooling the stew. This method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully without losing the heartiness of the beans.

For those who prefer to use an immersion blender, watch for the visual cue of beans losing their shape but not completely disintegrating. Blend slowly and gradually to control the consistency. Aim for a velvety base while preserving some whole beans, which will provide a lovely bite and enhance the overall mouthfeel.

Flavor Enhancements and Ingredient Substitutions

For extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables until they are golden before adding the broth. A little caramelization enhances the overall taste, adding a subtle sweetness. You might also experiment by incorporating smoked paprika, which would introduce a delightful smoky essence that complements the creamy beans beautifully.

If you're looking for ways to adjust this recipe to suit dietary needs, feel free to swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, a splash of almond milk can keep the creaminess while reducing calories. Just remember that coconut milk will impart a slightly different flavor, which can still work well with the herbs used in the stew.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This stew makes for excellent leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop after sitting a day in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. If you notice the stew thickening too much upon refrigeration, a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating can restore its desired consistency. Just heat it gently on medium-low to avoid sticking.

Serving this stew with crusty bread is a classic choice, but you could also pair it with a fresh green salad or some garlic toast for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it over cooked rice or quinoa, allowing the stew to soak into the grains for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add the Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend a portion of the stew until creamy while leaving some beans whole for texture. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the stew to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.

Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy white bean stew!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew is too thin, consider mashing a few more beans with a fork to thicken it up naturally. Another quick fix is to allow the stew to simmer uncovered for a few minutes, which will help reduce the liquid content and concentrate the flavors. Watch the heat level—too high can cause the stew to stick or burn, while too low will extend cooking time unnecessarily.

On the flip side, if it's too thick, adding a few tablespoons of vegetable broth or water is a simple fix. Make sure to reheat on a low flame to blend the added liquid smoothly without overpowering the established flavors.

Meal Prep and Freezing Tips

This stew is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a double batch over the weekend and portion it out into containers. When frozen, it can last for up to three months. To freeze, cool the stew completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each with the date to track freshness.

When it comes to reheating, ensure you do so slowly. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for quicker defrosting. Reheat on the stove over gentle heat to bring it back to the original creamy consistency, stirring frequently for even warming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

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

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.

→ Is there a vegan option for this stew?

Yes, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer.