Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) of white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making my Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew! The enticing aroma fills my kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that brings my family together. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for warming up chilly evenings. With creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that I look forward to every week. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more quality time with my loved ones while it simmers to perfection.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:33:34.644Z

When I first experimented with this stew, I was looking for a hearty dish that didn’t require complicated techniques. I stumbled upon the idea of using white beans as the base, and oh, what a game changer! The creaminess comes from blending some of the beans before adding them back to the pot, which gives it that rich texture.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe, adding fresh herbs and a touch of lemon for brightness. It’s amazing how the simple combination of white beans, vegetables, and spices can create such a comforting meal. I often serve it with crusty bread, perfect for dipping!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that’s satisfying and filling
Rich flavor from fresh herbs and spices
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Power of White Beans

White beans are not just a wholesome ingredient; they are the heart of this stew. Their creamy texture creates a velvety base, while their mild flavor absorbs the aromatics beautifully. When choosing beans, you can opt for cannellini or great northern beans. Both varieties provide a satisfying bite and protein-rich boost, making this stew not only comforting but also nutritious.

If you want to enhance the flavor even further, consider cooking dried beans from scratch. Just soak them overnight and then simmer until tender. This method will give you an earthy richness that canned beans may not fully capture. Just remember to adjust the broth quantity accordingly, as dried beans will absorb more liquid than canned.

Herbs and Spices: Elevating Flavor

Thyme and smoked paprika are two essential ingredients in this creamy stew, working together to create a harmonious depth of flavor. Thyme adds a subtle earthiness that complements the beans, while smoked paprika provides a warm, smoky undertone that enhances the overall profile. Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary or bay leaves, for variations in flavor.

When adding spices, don’t forget to toast them briefly in the olive oil before adding the vegetables. This technique helps release their natural oils, intensifying their flavors and allowing them to better infuse into the stew. Just a minute or two over medium heat will do the trick—watch for that fragrant aroma!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) of white beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.

Add the Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend a portion of the stew until smooth for a creamier texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the stew to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy!

It’s that easy to make a delicious stew!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this stew is that it keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the stew a day ahead, and the flavors will deepen overnight. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and it will last for up to five days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creaminess stew experience, serve it alongside crusty bread or toasted baguette slices. The bread is perfect for dipping and will soak up all that delicious broth. Additionally, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add freshness, balancing the richness of the stew.

For those looking to spice things up, top each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. These additions will create layers of flavor that take your stew to the next level. Also, consider adding chopped cooked sausage or kale for an extra protein boost while keeping it hearty and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! Just soak and cook the dried beans until tender before adding them to the stew.

→ Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the lemon juice until you reheat it.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's great on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! You can add cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier version.