Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet Recipe

The aroma wafting from the kitchen last Tuesday was nothing short of divine. A medley of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and something distinctly creamy filled the air, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. It was the “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” night, and let me tell you, it lived up to its romantic name. Even my notoriously picky teenager, who usually greets anything green with suspicion, devoured a generous portion and actually asked for seconds! This skillet dish isn’t just easy and quick to whip up; it’s bursting with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and has become a new weeknight staple in our home. The creamy white beans, vibrant spinach, and those chewy sun-dried tomatoes create a symphony of textures and tastes that are simply irresistible. If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal that’s both comforting and exciting, look no further – this skillet is a guaranteed winner.

Ingredients

To embark on your culinary journey to skillet bliss, gather these simple yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor and delightful texture that makes this dish so captivating. Using high-quality ingredients will elevate the final result, so choose fresh produce and good quality canned beans for the best outcome.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor and health benefits. It forms the base for sautéing the aromatics and adds richness to the skillet. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil as alternatives if you prefer.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Yellow onions provide a foundational savory sweetness to the dish. They soften and caramelize beautifully, creating a flavorful base. White onions can be substituted for a slightly sharper flavor, or shallots for a more delicate, garlicky note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for its pungent aroma and robust flavor. Mincing ensures the garlic infuses the oil and other ingredients evenly. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic cloves instead. If you are in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic, but fresh is always best for flavor intensity.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano lends a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Dried oregano is convenient and readily available. If you have fresh oregano, use about 1 tablespoon, adding it towards the end of cooking to preserve its fresh flavor. You can also experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like thyme or marjoram.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth and subtle spice that balances the richness of the dish. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. For a more intense heat, consider using a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, are the star of this skillet. Their creamy texture and mild, slightly nutty flavor create a luscious base for the dish. Rinsing and draining removes excess sodium and canning liquid. Great Northern beans or other white beans like navy beans can be used as substitutes, although cannellini beans are ideal for their creamy texture. Ensure you are using good quality canned beans; alternatively, you can cook dried cannellini beans from scratch for an even more flavorful result (remember to soak them overnight!).
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped: Sun-dried tomatoes in oil provide a burst of intense, sweet-tangy flavor and a chewy texture that is crucial to this recipe. Draining the excess oil is important to prevent the dish from becoming greasy. Chopping them into smaller pieces ensures they distribute evenly throughout the skillet. If you prefer, you can use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrating them in hot water before chopping. For a different flavor profile, roasted red peppers can be used as a substitute, although they will lack the intense sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color, leafy greens, and a mild earthy flavor. Roughly chopping it makes it easier to wilt down evenly in the skillet. Baby spinach is particularly tender and works well. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet. Other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard can also be used, but they may require slightly longer cooking time to soften. Ensure the spinach is fresh and vibrant green for the best flavor and visual appeal.
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds moisture and enhances the savory flavors of the dish. Low-sodium vegetable broth is recommended to control the salt content. Chicken broth can be used as a non-vegetarian alternative. If you don’t have broth, you can use water, but broth will add more depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan option: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess, creating the signature “Marry Me” sauce. It binds all the flavors together and provides a luxurious texture. For a vegan version, full-fat coconut cream works wonderfully, adding a similar richness and slight sweetness. Cashew cream or other plant-based creams can also be used. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even skip the cream altogether, although the dish will be less creamy.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (optional, omit for vegan): Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and savory umami flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Freshly grated Parmesan is always preferable for its superior flavor and melting quality. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast can be used to provide a cheesy, umami flavor, or you can use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. If you are omitting Parmesan, you might want to slightly increase the salt level to compensate for the missing saltiness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its more aromatic and robust flavor.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet.” Each step is designed to build layers of flavor and ensure a perfectly cooked and balanced dish. Don’t rush the process, and enjoy the aromas as they develop in your kitchen.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably; a 12-inch skillet is ideal. Allow the oil to heat up gently until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Sautéing the onion first releases its sweetness and creates a flavorful base for the dish. Don’t rush this step; properly softened onions are key to the overall flavor profile.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly and reduce the heat slightly if needed. The aroma of garlic and oregano will begin to fill your kitchen, signaling the next layer of flavor development. The red pepper flakes will gently infuse the oil with a subtle warmth.
3. Incorporate Beans and Sun-dried Tomatoes: Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine them with the onion, garlic, and spices. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the beans and sun-dried tomatoes to warm through and their flavors to meld together. This step helps to infuse the beans with the aromatic base you’ve created. The sun-dried tomatoes will soften slightly and release their intense flavor into the skillet.
4. Wilt the Spinach: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time. Stir continuously as you add the spinach, allowing each batch to wilt down before adding more. The spinach will initially seem like a lot, but it will quickly wilt and reduce in volume as it cooks. Continue adding spinach and stirring until all the spinach is wilted and bright green. Don’t overcook the spinach; it should be tender but still retain some texture and vibrant color.
5. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Stir to combine all the ingredients and create a creamy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened and the flavors have fully melded. Simmering allows the sauce to reduce slightly and become richer, while also ensuring all the ingredients are heated through and well combined. Taste the sauce at this stage and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Stir in Parmesan (Optional): If using Parmesan cheese, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. The residual heat of the skillet will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a smooth and cheesy finish. Stir gently to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed and doesn’t clump.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the skillet one final time and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)

Servings: 4

Approximate Calories per Serving: 350-450 calories

• Protein: 15-20g
• Fat: 20-25g (can vary based on cream and oil used)
• Saturated Fat: 8-12g (can vary based on cream and Parmesan)
• Cholesterol: 40-60mg (if using heavy cream and Parmesan)
• Sodium: 500-700mg (can vary based on canned beans and broth)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 10-12g
• Sugar: 5-8g

This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals from the spinach and other vegetables. It is important to note that the calorie and fat content can be adjusted by using lighter cream options or reducing the amount of oil and cheese. For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium canned beans and broth, and be mindful of added salt.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes (chopping vegetables, rinsing beans, etc.)
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

This “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” is a wonderfully quick and efficient meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The majority of the time is spent cooking, with minimal prep work required. You can further reduce prep time by using pre-chopped vegetables or pre-minced garlic, although freshly prepared ingredients will always offer the best flavor.

How to Serve

This versatile skillet dish can be served in a variety of ways, making it a fantastic option for different meals and occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Over Crusty Bread: Toasted slices of crusty bread, like baguette or ciabatta, are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and scooping up the beans and spinach. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the bread for added flavor and richness.
• With Pasta: Serve the skillet mixture over your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rigatoni, or orecchiette work particularly well, as their shapes hold the sauce beautifully. Toss the cooked pasta with the skillet mixture for a satisfying and comforting pasta dish.
• Alongside Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a soft and comforting base for the flavorful skillet. Spoon the white bean and spinach mixture over a bed of warm polenta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• With Quinoa or Rice: For a lighter option, serve the skillet over cooked quinoa or brown rice. These grains provide a healthy and nutritious base that complements the flavors of the dish.
• As a Side Dish: While substantial enough to be a main course, this skillet can also be served as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
• Topped with a Fried Egg: For a brunch or breakfast-for-dinner option, top the skillet with a perfectly fried egg. The runny yolk adds extra richness and flavor to the dish.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, spoon the skillet mixture into crisp lettuce cups, like butter lettuce or romaine lettuce. This creates a refreshing and light meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers for a complete and balanced vegetarian meal. The roasted vegetables add another layer of flavor and texture to the dish.

Additional Tips

Here are five helpful tips to elevate your “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” and ensure culinary success:

1. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic: Garlic is a key flavor component in this recipe. Using fresh garlic and sautéing it properly until fragrant is crucial for developing the depth of flavor. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Roasting the garlic beforehand can also add a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor.
2. Toast the Breadcrumbs (Optional): For added texture and flavor, consider topping the finished skillet with toasted breadcrumbs. Simply toss breadcrumbs with a little olive oil, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese (if using) and toast them in a skillet until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle them over the skillet just before serving.
3. Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the dish. Lemon zest can also be added along with the juice for an extra layer of citrusy aroma.
4. Customize with Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this skillet to customize it to your liking and use up what you have on hand. Artichoke hearts, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the vegetables you add.
5. Make it Ahead for Flavor Enhancement: This skillet dish actually tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld and deepen as it sits. Make it a day ahead and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about the “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” to help you master this recipe:

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative like cashew cream. Omit the Parmesan cheese entirely or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy, umami flavor. Ensure you are using vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian/vegan. The coconut cream will provide a similar richness and creaminess to heavy cream, and nutritional yeast can mimic the savory flavor of Parmesan.

Q2: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the skillet. Excess water can make the dish watery and dilute the flavors. Use about half the amount of frozen spinach as you would fresh spinach, as frozen spinach is more densely packed. Ensure you cook it until heated through.

Q3: Can I substitute the cannellini beans with another type of bean?

A: Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like Great Northern beans or navy beans. While cannellini beans are ideal for their creamy texture, Great Northern beans are a close second, and navy beans will also work, although they are slightly smaller and less creamy. You can also experiment with chickpeas for a slightly different flavor and texture profile.

Q4: How long does this skillet dish last in the refrigerator?

A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” will last for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water when reheating can help to restore its creamy consistency if it has thickened too much in the refrigerator.

Q5: Can I add protein to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can easily add protein to this recipe to make it even more substantial. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage would all be delicious additions. Cook the protein separately and add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. For vegetarian protein options, consider adding crumbled feta cheese, chickpeas (if not using as the main bean), or cooked lentils. Tofu or tempeh, pan-fried or baked, would also be excellent plant-based protein additions.

This “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to win hearts. Its simplicity belies its incredible flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to be swept away by the irresistible charm of this skillet sensation. Your family, and maybe even your future spouse, will thank you for it!