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 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup kale, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I absolutely adore cozy Sundays, and what better way to embrace this day than with a warm bowl of creamy white bean stew? This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen; it’s comforting, hearty, and flavorful. The combination of tender beans, fresh vegetables, and rich spices creates a dish that warms not just the body, but the soul. I love how quickly it comes together—perfect for a lazy afternoon when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:19:35.836Z

When I first experimented with white bean stews, I was amazed at how versatile they could be. This particular recipe came about on a chilly Sunday when I wanted something filling yet quick to prepare. I found that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end really brightens the flavors, making the dish feel fresh and invigorating.

Another tip I’ve learned is to let the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a perfect Sunday dinner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's comforting and satisfying
Packed with nutritious ingredients for a healthy meal
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this creamy white bean stew is undoubtedly the white beans themselves. Cannellini and navy beans provide not only a delightful creamy texture but also a protein-packed base that makes the dish hearty. Make sure to use well-cooked beans—if you're using canned beans, rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium. If you prefer to cook dried beans, soak them overnight and simmer them until tender, which might take 1-2 hours depending on their age.

The fresh vegetables enhance both flavor and nutrition in this stew. Onions and garlic create a robust aromatic base, while carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. Be sure to sauté the onion until it's translucent and fragrant; this usually takes about 5 minutes on medium heat. The key is to develop a flavor base that's rich before moving on to the other ingredients.

Tips for a Perfect Stew

To achieve the right creamy consistency, consider blending a portion of the stew once it's cooked. Using an immersion blender, pulse a couple of cups until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. This technique will not only thicken the stew but also enhance its richness. Just be careful not to over-blend; you still want some chunks of beans and vegetables for texture.

If you're looking to elevate the flavors further, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. Allow it to reduce for a minute or two before adding the remaining ingredients. This small step adds a layer of depth that complements the beans beautifully.

Serving and Storing

This creamy white bean stew is fantastic served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. You can also top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an added flavor boost. If you're entertaining, a side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy stew.

The beauty of this dish lies in its make-ahead capabilities. You can prepare the stew a day in advance; the flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight. When storing, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. Simply thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup kale, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Carrots and Celery

Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked beans, thyme, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish with Greens

Stir in the chopped kale and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Additionally, serving this stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can enhance its freshness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables in this stew! Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can add more variety and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or even some fresh basil to brighten it up. Just remember to adjust the cooking times as needed for different veggies to ensure everything is tender but not mushy.

For a protein boost, consider adding diced cooked chicken or sausage to the stew. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, mushrooms can impart a meaty texture and savoriness. Just sauté them along with the other vegetables to fully develop their flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your stew is too thick after simmering, don’t hesitate to add more vegetable broth or water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it's too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. Keeping a close eye on the stew during cooking and adjusting as needed is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Seasoning is crucial in any stew. If you feel like it might be lacking flavor after everything has been combined, taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness that can elevate the overall flavor profile, so don’t skip that vital finishing touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned white beans?

Yes, canned white beans work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse them before adding.

→ How can I make this stew vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance the flavors, you can use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even over cooked grains like quinoa or rice.