Name: Easy Canned Butter Beans (Simply Sautéed)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: American

Balancing Bowls Verified

January 30, 2026

Butter beans are one of the most underrated pantry staples. With their creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor, they make a fantastic side dish or even a simple, satisfying main meal. This easy butter beans recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, using everyday ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Whether you're serving them with crusty bread or roasted vegetables, this dish is a must-try for busy weeknights.

Easy Canned Butter Beans (Simply Sautéed)

Easy Canned Butter Beans (Simply Sautéed) cover

From the Cook

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Easy Canned Butter Beans (Simply Sautéed)

Balancing Bowls Verified

Ingredients

WarningSulphites allergen identified

Instructions

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Instructions

Heat 4 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon salt, then pour in ⅓ cup white wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add 2 cans of butter beans (one drained, one with liquid), ⅓ cup water, ¼ cup lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well, bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or other fresh herbs. Enjoy!

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Bean Liquid Magic 💧
Reserve the canned bean liquid (aquafaba) as a secret weapon - it adds incredible creaminess and helps prevent the beans from drying out during sautéing.
Flavor Layering Technique 🧄
Bloom your garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil for 30-45 seconds before adding beans to release their essential oils and maximize aromatic depth.
Acid Balance Trick 🍋
Add lemon juice off the heat to preserve its bright flavor and prevent the acidic notes from becoming bitter or harsh.
Texture Enhancement Hack 🥄
Gently crush about 1/4 of the beans while sautéing to create a more complex, rustic texture that helps thicken the dish naturally.
Herb Infusion Method 🌿
Finely mince fresh herbs and add them just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and maximize their aromatic impact.

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About the Cook

Balancing Bowls

I'm Nora! Balancing Bowls is the product of a slightly chaotic life, a need to make and grow things, and a love of creative cooking. If you're here because you're trying to feed your family well without losing your mind, you're in the right place.