Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.
Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans
Recipe by Amanda Stanfield // EatingWell
There are certain flavor combinations that just feel like home… and broccoli cheddar is one of them. Add in creamy, hearty butter beans and you have a dish that checks every box—comforting, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying.
I’ve always loved broccoli cheddar soup, and butter beans have a soft, almost buttery texture that makes them so enjoyable. So naturally, this recipe caught my attention right away. It feels like a cozy classic with a simple, nourishing twist—perfect for a meatless Monday meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Creamy and comforting without being overly heavy
• A simple, one-pan meal
• Budget-friendly and pantry-friendly
• A delicious way to enjoy a meatless meal
• Rich in fiber to support fullness and digestion
• Comes together quickly for busy evenings
• Feels indulgent while still being nourishing
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 3 medium cloves garlic, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
• 12 ounces fresh broccoli florets, cut into ½-inch pieces (about 4 cups)
• ⅓ cup lower-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added butter beans, rinsed
• ¾ cup half-and-half
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 8 (½-inch) slices crusty whole-wheat baguette, toasted
Instructions
Step 1
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 2 minutes). Add the broccoli and stir to combine. Pour in the broth, cover, and cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp and bright green, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 2
Stir in the butter beans, half-and-half, pepper, dry mustard, and salt. Bring to a lively simmer over medium-high heat. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
Let cool slightly, then stir in ¾ cup of the Cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Cheddar. Serve with toasted baguette slices.
Notes
• Cut the broccoli into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly
• Don’t overcook the broccoli—you want it tender-crisp and vibrant
• Stir the cheese in gently at the end to keep the sauce smooth and creamy
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it
• Use a good-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor
Recipe Link
Serving Ideas
• Serve with toasted whole-wheat baguette slices (as suggested) for dipping
• Pair with a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top to brighten the flavors
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh finish
Nourishing Highlight: Broccoli 🥦
Broccoli is one of those simple, everyday vegetables that delivers incredible nourishment. It’s easy to overlook, but when prepared well, it brings both comfort and nutrition to the table in a meaningful way.
A simple vegetable with powerful nourishment—here’s what makes broccoli so special:
• Rich in Vitamin C
Supports immune health, skin integrity, and helps your body absorb iron more effectively.
• Excellent source of Vitamin K
Essential for proper blood clotting and plays a key role in bone health.
• High in fiber
Supports digestion, gut health, and helps keep you full and satisfied.
• Contains sulforaphane
A natural plant compound known for its antioxidant and detox-supporting properties.
• Supports natural detox pathways
Compounds in broccoli help the liver process and eliminate toxins efficiently.
• Blood sugar support
Fiber and plant compounds may help stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Heart health friendly
Contains nutrients and antioxidants that support healthy cholesterol levels.
• Hydrating & low calorie
High water content makes it a great option for volume eating without excess calories.
Broccoli is also naturally low in calories while being filling and satisfying—making it a beautiful example of how nourishing foods don’t need to be complicated.
If you cook along this week, I’d love to hear what you think.
We’ll revisit together in Friday Reflections 🤍
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