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 of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love cozy Sundays spent cooking a hearty meal for my family, and this creamy white bean stew is a beloved favorite. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it fills the kitchen with a warm aroma that welcomes everyone home. We enjoy this stew as a filling lunch or dinner, and it always feels special because I know each ingredient contributes to a nourishing dish. The best part? It's incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more quality time with my loved ones.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:09:34.804Z

From the moment I first made this creamy white bean stew, it became a staple in my home. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and tender beans creates a comforting dish that's both satisfying and healthy. I love playing around with the spices to give it my personal touch, and the creaminess comes from a combination of the beans and a splash of cream, making it luxurious yet light.

One tip I've discovered is to let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often prepare a batch on Sunday, which provides delicious leftovers for busy weekdays. It’s perfect for packing in lunchboxes too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly days
Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients

      

The Creaminess Factor

The heavy cream in this stew is what takes it from ordinary to extraordinary. It not only adds a rich, velvety texture but also balances the earthy flavors of the white beans and vegetables. When stirring in the cream, aim for a gentle heat to ensure it combines smoothly without curdling. I’ve found that letting it simmer for just an extra five minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining that luscious creaminess.

If you're looking for lighter options, consider substituting half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that with plant-based alternatives, the flavor profile will shift slightly. A splash of lemon juice can help brighten the dish and counteract the richness of the coconut milk, adding a refreshing twist to the creamy base.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of white beans provides a robust source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this stew not just filling but also nutritious. Look for cannellini or great northern beans, as they’re starchier and creamier, perfect for stew. If you only have dried beans on hand, you can soak and cook them ahead of time, though this will add several hours to your prep time.

Herbs like thyme and the bay leaf contribute an aromatic depth that enchants the entire dish. Dried thyme is convenient, but if you have fresh on hand, definitely use that; I’d suggest about three times as much for a more vibrant flavor. Don’t underestimate the onion and garlic either! These aromatics lay the foundation of the stew, providing a savory backbone that enhances every spoonful.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew.

Ingredients

2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook a delicious stew.

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Combine the Beans and Broth

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

Add Cream and Season

Remove the bay leaf, then stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy white bean stew!

Enjoy your delicious homemade stew!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. For an extra flavor boost, a splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten everything up!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this creamy white bean stew is how well it holds up for meal prep. You can make a large batch on Sunday and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for optimal freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid breaking the cream’s consistency.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into individual containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and consider stirring in a splash of fresh cream just before serving to revive its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the stew is hearty on its own, serving it with a crusty baguette or homemade cornbread elevates the meal. I love dipping fresh bread into the stew; it’s a simple pleasure that complements the creamy texture. You could also add a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the stew beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables to suit your taste or what you have available. Spinach, kale, or even diced potatoes can all enhance the dish's nutritional value. If you enjoy heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables will give the stew a comforting kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month.

→ What can I serve this stew with?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream to make it vegan-friendly.

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just remember to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time.