Smoky Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s easy to make yet impressive enough to serve your guests? Say hello to the Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew—a simple one-pot dish packed with smoky chorizo, creamy butter beans, and rich tomato-based goodness.

Perfect for cozy evenings or anytime you’re craving a warm, nourishing stew with minimal effort.

What You'll Love About This Dish

Here’s why this stew deserves a place in your recipe rotation:

• Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, using simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Packed with Flavor – Spicy and smoky chorizo pairs perfectly with butter beans’ creamy, subtle texture.
• Versatile – Enjoy it alone, serve over rice, or dunk in a slice of crusty bread. Pair it with a salad, or simply eat it straight from the pot—no judgment here!
• Meal Prep Friendly – This stew tastes even better as leftovers, so make a big batch to reheat throughout the week.

Now that we have your mouth watering, let's jump straight into the recipe.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make a Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew that serves 4, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 7 oz (200g) chorizo, diced (use Spanish-style, cured chorizo for maximum flavor)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little extra kick)
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance tomatoes' acidity)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or rice, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Chorizo

Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced chorizo. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chorizo begins to release its vibrant red oils and turns slightly crispy at the edges. This step is key for building the flavor base of your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the finely chopped onion to the pot, cooking in the chorizo-infused oil. Stir frequently for 5 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Spice it Up

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and optional chili flakes, and give everything a quick stir to coat the aromatics and chorizo. This step releases the smoky aroma and amplifies the depth of flavor.

Step 4: Build the Stew

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, butter beans, chicken or vegetable stock, and sugar. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot for all those delicious browned bits (they pack an insane amount of flavor).

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the stew to thicken slightly. Season to taste with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Be careful not to over-salt—a little goes a long way since chorizo is already seasoned.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle your finished Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with crusty bread for dunking or spoon it over rice for a hearty meal.

Tips for the Perfect Stew

• Choose Your Chorizo Wisely: Use Spanish-style, dried, and cured chorizo rather than fresh sausage for maximum smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chorizo with smoky paprika-spiced tofu or a plant-based sausage. Use vegetable stock for the stew base.
• Add Veggies: Bulk up the recipe with diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-packed twist.

Why Butter Beans Steal the Show

Butter beans (also known as lima beans) are the unsung heroes of hearty stews. Their slightly nutty, creamy texture perfectly complements the robust chorizo and tangy tomato flavors. Plus, they’re packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients—making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Whether you’re making dinner for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a casual gathering, this Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew is guaranteed to hit the spot. Pair it with a bold red wine (a Grenache or Tempranillo would be divine) or a frosty craft beer for the ultimate comfort meal experience.

Get Cooking Today!

With minimal prep, maximum flavor, and crowd-pleasing versatility, the Butter Bean & Chorizo Stew is your go-to recipe for cozy nights and satisfying meals. Try it out this week and discover why it’s a favorite among home cooks and stew lovers alike!

Love this recipe? Share it with your foodie friends and tag us in your creations. We can’t wait to see your spins on this one-pot wonder!