Creamy Spinach Garlic White Beans

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic White Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Garlic White Beans when I want a comforting yet nutritious meal. Cooking the beans until they’re tender and letting the flavors meld together creates a rich, creamy dish that I can't resist. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds a beautiful color but also a burst of freshness that complements the garlic perfectly. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-18T01:52:13.477Z

When I first tried this recipe, it was a rainy evening, and I craved something warm and hearty. The process of sautéing garlic and watching the spinach wilt into the creamy beans was mesmerizing. Every side of flavor contributed to a well-balanced dish that felt both satisfying and healthy.

One critical tip I learned was to use high-quality vegetable broth; it enhances the overall taste beyond just using water. The creaminess comes from blending part of the beans, which thickens the mixture perfectly while leaving some whole for that delightful texture.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Richness of creamy white beans
Fresh flavor of sautéed garlic and spinach
Easy one-pan preparation for quicker cleanup

      

Unlocking Flavor with Garlic and Onion

The foundation of rich flavor in this dish comes from the garlic and onion. Sautéing the onion until it turns translucent releases its natural sweetness, which enhances the overall taste. Aim for about 4-5 minutes over medium heat, and don’t rush the process—golden edges on the onion will bring out even more depth. Adding the minced garlic just as the onion softens helps to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste that masks the intended flavor profile.

When sautéing garlic, watch it closely; it only takes about 30 seconds to a minute for it to become fragrant. The aroma will be your cue to move to the next step. If you notice any browning, reduce the heat slightly to maintain balance without compromising flavor.

The Star Ingredient: Spinach

Fresh spinach plays a key role in both the nutrition and presentation of this dish. It wilts down significantly, so feel free to use more than the 2 cups called for if you enjoy greens. When added, sauté until it's just wilted; overcooking can lead to a slimy texture, which is not desirable. In just 2-3 minutes, your spinach should become vibrant and tender, bringing a luscious green contrast to the creamy beans.

You can also experiment with different greens, such as kale or Swiss chard, if you're looking to switch things up. Just keep in mind that harder greens may require slightly longer cooking times to soften optimally.

Blending for Texture

Using an immersion blender to achieve a creamy texture requires some finesse. Blend just enough to break down part of the beans while keeping the integrity of others. You want a nice balance of creaminess without turning the whole mixture into a purée. Blending for about 15-20 seconds should give you that desired texture, where some beans remain whole and others contribute to a smooth consistency.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer a portion of the mixture to a regular blender. Just make sure to allow it to cool slightly before blending, and pulse in intervals to control the texture. Remember to return it all back to the pan for a cohesive dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience:

Ingredients

2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy spinach garlic white beans:

Sauté Aromatics

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Add Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pan and stir until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Beans and Broth

Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir to combine, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend part of the mixture till creamy while leaving some beans whole. Stir well.

Finish and Serve

Lastly, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before serving warm.

Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs prior to serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it becomes too thick. This helps maintain that creamy texture we love.

If you’re looking to freeze leftovers, consider portioning them into individual containers. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Garlic White Beans can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy quinoa for added protein and texture. For a complete meal, add a side salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the flavors in the dish.

For a protein boost, you could stir in some cooked chicken or sausage at the end. Just be sure to heat it through before serving. This versatility makes the recipe adaptable for families with different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand, which will add to your prep time.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly!

→ What can I pair with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or as a topping for toast.