Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew for its warmth and heartiness. The combination of creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together at the table, especially on a chilly Sunday evening. With minimal effort and a few essential ingredients, I can create a comforting stew that feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:25:35.313Z

When I first stumbled upon this creamy white bean stew recipe, I knew I had to give it a shot. The beans emerge from the pot buttery and smooth thanks to the gentle simmer, which really enhances the flavors. I added a touch of lemon juice just before serving, which brightened the whole dish and added a lovely contrast to the creaminess.

Throughout the cooking process, the aroma fills my kitchen and makes me joyful. I recommend using fresh herbs for the best taste, especially thyme and rosemary, which intertwine beautifully with the beans. Each spoonful is comforting, nourishing, and reminds me of family gatherings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that soothes the soul
Hearty and filling for a satisfying meal
Perfect for cozy Sunday dinners with loved ones

Understanding the Creamy Texture

The creamy texture of this stew is one of its most appealing qualities. By blending a portion of the stew, you create a smooth base that envelops the remaining whole beans, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, blend just a bit less, or leave a larger proportion of beans whole. This technique balances the heartiness of the beans with the comforting creaminess that makes the dish so inviting, all while allowing the stew to maintain its character.

Using heavy cream adds richness, but you can adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free variant. Keep in mind that substituting with lighter ingredients may alter the final creaminess, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste as the stew simmers. This swap works wonderfully while still providing a delightful flavor.

Ingredient Flexibility

The beauty of this stew lies in its flexibility when it comes to ingredients. If you don’t have white beans on hand, chickpeas or even lentils can provide a different spin while still delivering protein and heartiness. Just be aware that cooking times might vary; dried lentils will cook quicker, while canned versions simply need to be heated through. This adaptability makes it easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry.

You can also customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or your personal preferences. Adding greens such as spinach or kale can provide an extra nutritional boost without compromising the overall flavor. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted. This approach not only diversifies the flavor profile but also enhances the stew's visual appeal with a splash of vibrant color.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the flavors vibrant, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching, especially due to the cream content, which can separate if heated too quickly.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, or use the quick-thaw setting on your microwave. Simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary to restore its creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started with your stew.

For the Stew

2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to measure out your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy white bean stew.

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 softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Broth and Beans

Stir in the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Blend and Add Cream

After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the stew for a creamy consistency, leaving some beans whole. Stir in the heavy cream, and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy this delicious stew on its own or with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy white bean stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping and soaking up all the savory goodness. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a bright contrast that balances the richness of the stew. You could also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor and indulgence.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving it over cooked quinoa or rice. This not only boosts the protein content but also creates a more filling dish that’s great for gatherings. Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving to enhance the dish's richness and give it a gourmet touch.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If the stew appears too thick after blending, add a bit more vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it a little longer to allow the extra liquid to evaporate and thicken. Remember, it’s easier to adjust gradually than to fix an overly thick stew afterward.

Taste as you go! Seasoning can vary based on the beans and broth used, so make sure to adjust with salt, pepper, and lemon juice at the end for the best flavor. This final adjustment stage is critical; allowing the stew to rest for a few minutes can also help the flavors meld before you serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days and flavors improve after a day.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This creamy white bean stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook the dried beans before adding them to the stew. This may require some additional cooking time.