Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup plant-based milk; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew as a comforting meal to wrap up the week. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish to savor with family and friends. The blend of herbs and spices elevates the white beans and vegetables, turning them into a delightful medley. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekends when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:22:14.778Z

When I first made this stew, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how delicious it turned out. I remember being hesitant about the creaminess, but a dash of plant-based milk blended with the beans created a perfectly smooth texture that was entirely satisfying. I felt like a culinary genius serving this to my friends.

The key to making this stew exceptional is letting it simmer so the flavors meld beautifully. I also love adding different seasonal vegetables each time, like spinach or zucchini, which adds freshness and depth to the dish. It’s quickly become a Sunday tradition in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, hearty texture that warms you from the inside out
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy Sunday
Versatile recipe that allows for seasonal vegetable swaps

      

Flavor Harmony in Every Spoonful

The combination of herbs and spices in this stew enhances its flavor profile significantly. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the beans. This depth of flavor becomes even more evident as the stew simmers, allowing the spices to meld wonderfully with the vegetables. Make sure to taste the stew halfway through cooking; adjusting the seasoning at this point can elevate the dish tremendously.

White beans are not only nutritious but also play a crucial role in creating the thick, creamy base of this stew. Their natural starchiness thickens the broth, while adding a rich and hearty flavor. If you're looking to experiment, cannellini beans or great northern beans can be great substitutes—both will contribute to that desired creaminess.

Perfecting Your Stew Texture

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a color change; the onions should turn translucent and the carrots should soften slightly. This combination creates a fragrant base that infuses the stew with flavor. Avoid browning the vegetables too much, as this can lead to a bitter taste. If you notice any sticking, feel free to add a splash more olive oil to keep things moving smoothly.

A key factor to achieving the creamy consistency you want is the balance between vegetable broth and plant-based milk. If you prefer a thicker stew, consider reducing the amount of vegetable broth slightly or using less plant-based milk. Likewise, if you love a thinner stews, simply adjust the liquid to your preference—cooking is all about making it your own!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your stew:

Main Ingredients

2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup plant-based milk
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Once you have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Beans and Seasonings

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, plant-based milk, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Serve

Allow the stew to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Enjoy your delicious and creamy white bean stew!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish.

Make-Ahead Tips

The Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew is an excellent make-ahead option. To prepare it in advance, cook the stew as directed, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based milk to maintain its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick, nourishing meal on a busy weekday.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is perfect on its own, but you can enhance the meal with a variety of accompaniments. Consider pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad for a fresh contrast. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving can also add a burst of freshness and color.

For a heartier meal, serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice. This not only adds texture but also boosts the nutritional value, offering a complete protein alongside the beans. You can also top the stew with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or sour cream to add creaminess and tang.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's great on its own or served with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free and you're good to go.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a kick!