Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! The combination of luscious tomatoes and hearty white beans creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any season. Each spoonful is rich and satisfying, making it a go-to meal after a long day. The hint of spices and the creaminess from the beans elevate the flavors, creating a delightful balance. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be made in just one pot, which means less cleanup. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:07:15.451Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The secret lies in using quality canned tomatoes and fresh herbs, which create layers of deliciousness without overwhelming preparation. I love to let the stew simmer, so the flavors meld beautifully, making it even better the next day!

Another tip for you: feel free to customize this stew by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. I once added some spinach and a pinch of smoked paprika, and it took the dish to the next level. It's a versatile recipe that never disappoints, whether you're making it for family or guests.

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Rich, creamy consistency that warms your soul
Hearty white beans provide protein and fiber
A perfect fusion of tomato and herb flavors
Quick and easy one-pot meal for busy nights

      

The Power of Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of crushed tomatoes and white beans not only forms the base of this stew but also contributes to its nutritional profile. Crushed tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, while white beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. This means you're not just enjoying a hearty meal, but you're also fueling your body with essential nutrients that support overall health.

Using high-quality canned tomatoes makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Look for brands that contain no added sugars or preservatives. When it comes to white beans, cannellini or navy beans are ideal as their creamy texture complements the stew perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use dried beans; just make sure to soak and cook them before adding them to the stew.

Perfecting the Stew Consistency

Achieving the right creamy texture can be pivotal in this stew. If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. Conversely, if you find the stew too thick after adding the cream, you can easily thin it out with a little more vegetable broth or water.

Another method to enhance creaminess is to partially blend the stew before adding the heavy cream. Use an immersion blender to puree about one-third of the mixture directly in the pot. This creates a thick and luscious base while still maintaining whole beans and chunks for texture. Just be cautious not to over-blend; you want some hearty elements in each spoonful.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious stew:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stew:

Sauté the onions and garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the tomatoes and beans

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the white beans, mixing well. Then add the vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer the stew

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Stir in the cream

Once the stew has simmered, pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Allow it to heat through, about 5 more minutes.

Serve and enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping!

Cleanup is a breeze since this delicious meal is made in one pot!

Pro Tips

To add more texture, consider topping the stew with crispy bread crumbs or croutons before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew stores remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, allow it to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, taking care to add a bit of liquid if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful dining experience, serve this stew with crusty bread or warm baguettes. The bread perfectly complements the creamy texture of the stew and allows for enjoyable dipping. Additionally, a side salad with crisp greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.

Feel free to customize your serving style! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream can enhance the flavors even further. You might also consider serving it over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. This versatility makes the stew an excellent option for any table setting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Just substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What other beans can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different beans, such as chickpeas or black beans, for a unique flavor!