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.