Creamy Spinach White Bean Skillet

Name: Creamy Spinach White Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of half a lemon; Optional: crushed red pepper flakes

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach White Bean Skillet for weeknight dinners. It's a one-pan dish that comes together in about 30 minutes and packs a flavorful punch with every bite. The combination of creamy white beans and fresh spinach has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Whether served over rice, alongside crusty bread, or simply enjoyed on its own, this dish delivers both comfort and nutrition. It’s a perfect way to sneak in some greens while satisfying my cravings for creaminess without any heavy cream!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:09:35.615Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Spinach White Bean Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key is to let the garlic sauté until golden before adding the spinach. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the spinach. I also love that the use of white beans creates a creamy texture without needing additional dairy.

One tip I discovered is to reserve some of the pasta cooking water if you decide to serve it over pasta. Adding a splash of that starchy water helps create a cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to your ingredients. Pair this dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture without heavy cream
Packed with nutritious greens and plant-based protein
Quick and easy to make in just one pan

      

Cooking Techniques for Creaminess

To achieve the rich and creamy texture in this dish without the need for heavy cream, the key lies in the white beans. When mixed into the sautéed spinach and onion, the beans break down slightly, releasing their starches, which contribute to the creaminess. Use a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the beans against the skillet’s side while stirring; this will enhance the velvety mouthfeel of the dish and make it extra luscious.

It’s also important to control the simmering process. Keep the heat at medium-low once you add the vegetable broth and beans. A vigorous boil may lead to uneven cooking or over-reduction of the broth, which can make the dish dry. You want to simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly without losing moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ons

This Creamy Spinach White Bean Skillet is versatile, so feel free to mix things up! If you don’t have white beans on hand, you can substitute them with chickpeas or cannellini beans for a different flavor profile. Both options provide a good source of plant-based protein while still retaining that creamy texture. Additionally, if spinach isn't available, kale or Swiss chard makes a great alternative; just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender.

For those looking to elevate the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or drizzling some balsamic glaze before serving to add a sweet tang. You could also incorporate cooked quinoa or farro during the broth stage to transform this skillet meal into an even heartier option.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes

These ingredients combine to create a deliciously creamy, satisfying dish that everyone will love!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, 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 minute, until fragrant.

Add the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Incorporate the Beans and Broth

Stir in the rinsed white beans and vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and, if desired, crushed red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and give everything a good stir. Serve warm, and enjoy your creamy spinach white bean creation!

Serve this dish over your favorite grain or enjoy it on its own for a healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to make it even more nutritious.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the wonderful aspects of this creamy skillet dish is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the sautéed aromatics and spinach in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the skillet and add the beans and broth for a quick weeknight meal.

If you're considering leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as they sit, and reheating is easy—just warm it on the stovetop over low heat while adding a splash of vegetable broth to maintain creaminess. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it may alter the texture.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach white bean skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of brown or white rice, or try pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. You could also serve it on top of a baked potato for a filling and satisfying dish.

Don’t forget about garnishing! Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, can brighten the dish and enhance its visual appeal. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also provide a lovely contrast, balancing the creaminess with a tangy note.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, but you can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

→ What can I use instead of white beans?

You can substitute white beans with chickpeas or kidney beans based on your preference.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.