Creamy Butter Bean Bacon Stew Recipe

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Creamy Butter Bean & Bacon Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cans (15 oz each) butter beans (or lima beans), drained & rinsed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the base
  • In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove a few pieces for garnish and leave the rest in the pot.
  1. Cook the aromatics
  • Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  1. Build the stew
  • Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stir well, and cook for 2 minutes (this helps thicken).
  • Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  1. Add beans & seasonings
  • Add butter beans, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and pepper.
  • Simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  1. Creamy finish
  • Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes until thickened and creamy.
  • Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt & pepper.
  1. Serve
  • Ladle into bowls, garnish with crispy bacon and parsley.
  • Best enjoyed with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

Tips & Variations:

  • Meaty option: Add diced ham, shredded chicken, or sausage for extra protein.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip bacon, use smoked paprika + a splash of liquid smoke for flavor.
  • Thicker stew: Mash some of the beans with a spoon and stir back in.
  • Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Health Benefits:

Butter beans are high in protein, fiber, and minerals (iron, magnesium, potassium).

Carrots & celery add vitamins and antioxidants.

Garlic & onions support immunity.

Cream makes it indulgent, but you can swap with coconut milk for a lighter version.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Butter Bean & Bacon Stew is a soul-warming, budget-friendly, and nutrient-rich dish. It’s perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or serving a big family dinner. The combination of smoky bacon, creamy beans, and savory vegetables makes it a comfort food classic you’ll want to make again and again.

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