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 white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Planning

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew to warm my soul every weekend. It brings a comforting blend of flavors that's perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in. As the beans simmer with herbs and vegetables, my kitchen fills with an aroma that makes everyone feel right at home. The way the creaminess mingles with the natural sweetness of the beans is simply irresistible. I often serve it in hearty bowls with crusty bread on the side, making it a complete meal everyone can enjoy.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:59:34.732Z

This creamy white bean stew is a delightful invention that came together one Sunday afternoon when I had a craving for something hearty yet healthy. I experimented with different herbs, and I found that fresh thyme really elevates the dish, giving it a fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with the beans and vegetables.

Another tip I discovered is to let the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together more harmoniously. By the time you ladle it into bowls, the aroma will be irresistible, inviting everyone to the table with eager appetites.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that brings comfort to any meal
Versatile and can be customized with seasonal vegetables
Hearty, filling dish perfect for a chilly day

      

Building Flavor in the Stew

One of the key elements in making this creamy white bean stew truly flavorful is how you cook the vegetables at the beginning. Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery until they are softened not only enhances their natural sugars but also creates a rich base for the stew. Aim for a slight golden edge on the onions to add a depth of flavor. If you're in a rush, a splash of white wine can deglaze the pot after sautéing and add a lovely acidity.

When adding garlic and thyme, think about timing. Garlic can become bitter if overcooked, so stir it in just before you add the beans. Fresh thyme is a fantastic herb that elevates the dish, offering a bright aroma that complements the beans. If fresh thyme isn’t available, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Aim for a half teaspoon to start with and adjust according to your taste.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The heavy cream is what transforms this stew from a simple bean soup into a luxurious dish. When you add the cream, reduce the heat to low to prevent boiling, which can cause it to separate. A gentle simmer for about five minutes is perfect for blending the cream with the other ingredients, resulting in a velvety texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind that the creaminess may be slightly reduced.

To enhance the creaminess even further, consider mashing a portion of the beans before stirring in the cream. This technique adds body and richness to the stew without altering the flavor. If you find the stew too thick, a splash of vegetable broth can help adjust the consistency; just remember to heat it beforehand to maintain the stewing temperature.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking!

Ingredients

2 cans white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy white bean stew.

Sauté the vegetables

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

Add garlic and thyme

Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Incorporate the beans

Add the rinsed white beans to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Add the cream

Stir in the heavy cream and let the stew simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious creamy white bean stew!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine before simmering the broth. You can also vary the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this stew stores beautifully in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container. The flavors develop even further as it sits, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. However, I recommend freezing it without the cream, as dairy can sometimes separate when thawed.

To reheat, gently warm the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Always taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating, as flavors can change over time.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this creamy white bean stew with crusty bread is a tradition in my home. The bread not only complements the stew but also allows you to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. A fresh side salad, perhaps with a citrus dressing, can add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the stew and round out the meal beautifully.

For those looking to add protein, consider stirring in cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken towards the end of cooking. This adds heartiness and flavor without much extra effort. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for extra nutrients and vibrancy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand to match the texture.

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Just substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a rich texture without the dairy.

→ How long does this stew keep in the fridge?

It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's in an airtight container.