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, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; 1 cup kale, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Warm Ideas

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew to wrap up the weekend. It’s warming, filling, and packed with flavor, perfect for a cozy gathering or a quiet family dinner. The creamy texture is heavenly, and the ease with which it comes together always surprises me. Using simple ingredients like canned white beans and fresh vegetables, it becomes a hearty dish that leaves everyone wanting more. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl, making my Sundays a bit brighter and more delicious.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:17:35.150Z

When I first tried making a white bean stew, I expected a simple, bland dish. However, the combination of herbs and spices transformed it into a flavorful masterpiece. I learned that sautéing onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients creates a foundation of flavor that makes a world of difference in depth.

Another key tip is to blend part of the beans for a creamy consistency while leaving some whole for texture. This technique not only enriches the stew but also adds visual appeal, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's comforting on colder days
Loaded with nutritious ingredients that are easy to find
Versatile for customization with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the white beans, which not only provide a creamy texture but also pack a nutritional punch. Choosing high-quality canned beans can save time and ensure consistent texture. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also use dried beans; just remember to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly. The canned beans enhance the creamy aspect when blended, making the entire dish more indulgent without adding extra calories.

Vegetables like carrots and celery bring not only flavor but also a subtle sweetness to the stew, balancing the richness of the beans. Chopping these vegetables finely allows them to soften more quickly when you sauté them, melding beautifully into the stew. For those who prefer a twist, feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, enhancing both texture and nutrition.

Sautéing and Blending Techniques

Sautéing your vegetables is a crucial step for developing a deep flavor base. Cook the onions until they are translucent and aromatic, which usually takes about five minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning, and make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot for any caramelized bits. This method enhances the overall flavor profile of the stew, providing a more complex taste than if you simply added everything all at once.

Using an immersion blender is a game-changer in achieving that creamy texture. I recommend blending about half of the stew, ensuring you leave some whole beans for texture. This technique makes it easier to serve, as it creates a richer sauce without needing to transfer everything to a countertop blender. If you find the stew too thick after blending, simply add a splash more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 cup kale, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs if desired.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend a portion of the stew for a creamier texture, leaving some beans whole.

Finish with Kale

Add the chopped kale and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your hearty stew with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or some freshly cracked black pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of cornbread, allowing you to soak up every drop of the delicious broth. Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top can add a delightful umami kick. If you want to elevate the dish further, a drizzle of balsamic reduction just before serving offers a lovely contrast to the creamy stew.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked grains like quinoa or rice directly into the stew just before serving. This not only increases the heartiness but also adds more texture. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of cooked grains to create a beautiful presentation while enhancing the nutritional value.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew can be prepared in advance and is perfect for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, make sure to leave some space in the container, as the stew may expand when frozen.

When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid scorching the bottom. If the stew has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of vegetable broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency. The flavors will actually deepen over time, making your leftovers even more delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand for this recipe.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers.