Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (14 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew on chilly evenings. It not only warms the soul but also fills the house with an irresistible aroma. The combination of creamy white beans and tangy tomatoes creates a comforting bowl that's packed with flavor and nutrition. As I stir the pot, I can already imagine the satisfaction it'll bring to my family around the dinner table. It's an easy recipe where vibrant ingredients come together beautifully, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:43:10.946Z

When I first decided to create a tomato-based stew, I wanted to make it creamy and hearty without using heavy cream. After several experiments, I discovered that pureeing a portion of the white beans really helped achieve that luscious texture. Every bite bursts with tomato goodness, and the subtle spices elevate the overall flavor without overpowering. It's become one of my family’s favorites since they know they can expect something delicious and nutritious.

One of my favorite tips is to let the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Adding a touch of fresh basil just before serving gives it a vibrant finish. Whether served with crusty bread or over rice, this stew is perfect for any occasion. I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in protein and fiber from the white beans
Creamy texture that feels indulgent yet healthy
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner

      

The Magic of White Beans

White beans, like cannellini or navy beans, are the star of this stew. They not only add a creamy, luscious texture but are also packed with protein and fiber, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious. Their mild flavor allows them to absorb the zesty notes of the crushed tomatoes and aromatic spices beautifully. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute white beans with chickpeas or even lentils, but be aware that this might alter the texture and cooking time slightly.

Moreover, cooking white beans from dried can elevate the stew's flavor profile even more. If you go that route, be sure to soak your beans overnight and then simmer them for about 90 minutes until tender before adding them to the stew. This method enhances their creaminess and deepens the overall flavor of your finished dish while giving you the satisfaction of cooking from scratch.

A Creamy Wonder

The blending step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture we love in this stew. By blending only half of the mixture, you create a rich base while leaving enough whole beans to provide that delightful contrast in texture. If you prefer a chunkier stew, consider mashing some beans with the back of a spoon instead of using a blender. This will still give you creaminess without losing all the morsels that contribute to the hearty feel of the dish.

Additionally, if you're seeking a plant-based creaminess, feel free to stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cashew cream just before serving. This twist adds an extra layer of richness without overwhelming the dish's core flavors. Experiment with how much you add according to your taste; start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust as needed.

Perfect Pairings and Storage Tips

Serving this stew with a slice of crusty sourdough or a fluffy rice bed captures the essence of comfort food. I love to sprinkle some grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top for an extra burst of umami, which elevates the dish even further. For a pop of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of arugula right before serving can contrast the richness of the stew beautifully.

If you're making this stew ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will deepen as it sits! Alternatively, this stew freezes well; just ensure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much during freezing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious and heartwarming stew.

Ingredients

2 cans (14 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Ingredients

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add the rinsed white beans, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the stew to achieve a creamy texture. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer part of the stew to a regular blender and then return it to the pot.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy it warm with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Enjoy this hearty stew, perfect for any day of the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or kale, for extra nutrition. This stew also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only hearty and delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. White beans provide essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate, important for energy production and overall health. The combination of tomatoes adds a rich source of antioxidants, including lycopene, which is linked to reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Additionally, the presence of garlic and onions contributes to this dish's health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost the immune system, while onions offer fiber and beneficial compounds that support digestive health. Together, these ingredients make for a nourishing meal that supports well-being without compromising on flavor.

Creative Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant warmth to the stew. Alternatively, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be mixed in for a more aromatic flavor. You could even toss in some greens like spinach or kale during the final simmer for added nutrition and color; they'll wilt quickly and infuse the stew with freshness.

For a heartier version, consider incorporating diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the onions at the sauté stage. They not only add depth to the stew’s flavor but also provide additional nutrients and texture. Just chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook through in the same time as the onion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common misstep when making stews is not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld. While the recipe suggests 20 minutes of simmering, consider letting it go for longer if you have the time. A longer cook not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a thicker consistency, which is often desired in a cozy stew.

Be cautious with the salt; while it's important for elevating flavors, adding too much early on can lead to an overly salty dish, especially since canned ingredients often contain sodium. Always taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end of cooking for the best results. This simple step can make a huge difference in the final flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand since they take longer to prepare.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the leftovers can last up to 3 days.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Certainly! You can add cooked sausage or chicken for a meatier version.