Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder for Any Occasion
If you love hearty, nutritious, and flavor-packed meals that come together in just one pan, then the Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet is a must-try!
This dish is a vegetarian twist on the famous "Marry Me Chicken," which is known for its rich, creamy sauce that’s so irresistible it could spark a proposal. Our version keeps the luxurious, velvety texture while packing in protein-rich white beans and nutrient-dense spinach.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Simplicity – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
High in Protein & Fiber – White beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full longer.
Rich & Creamy Without Heavy Cream – A blend of Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious texture without excessive fat.
Customizable & Versatile – Serve it over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ready in Under 30 Minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or heavy cream for a richer version)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Juice of 1/2 lemon (for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Base Flavor
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Broth
Stir in the white beans and vegetable broth. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach & Add Creaminess
Add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts. Lower the heat and mix in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Squeeze in the lemon juice for added brightness.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve over rice, pasta, or with warm, crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet
Use High-Quality Ingredients – Fresh spinach, ripe cherry tomatoes, and a good-quality Parmesan will enhance the flavors.
Don't Overcook the Spinach – Add it last to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.
For Extra Protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Want More Heat? – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Make it Vegan – Swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt or coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
FAQs
1. What does "Marry Me" mean in this dish?
The term "Marry Me" originated from the creamy, decadent flavors of the original Marry Me Chicken. This dish has a similarly rich and irresistible taste that might just make someone fall in love with your cooking!
2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the skillet.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, quinoa, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but keep in mind that the creamy texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
The Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet is the perfect meal for a cozy dinner, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special someone. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it's bound to become a new favorite. Try it today and see if it lives up to its name!