Recipe: Marry Me Beans – Comfort in a Bowl

In the midst of settling into my new apartment in Dijon, France, on a stormy evening, I craved something hearty and comforting. Marry Me Beans came to the rescue—rich, flavorful, and perfect for cozying up in my new space. With fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and melty mozzarella, this dish is both satisfying and simple to make. Whether you opt for dried beans or canned beans, I've got you covered with both variations.

I paired this with a Petit Chablis and it worked wonderfully. 

Ingredients:

• For Dried Beans:

  • 1 cup dried white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern)
  • Water, for soaking and cooking
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt, to taste

• For Canned Beans:

  • 1 can of white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed

• For the Dish:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4-5 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Crusty bread, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:

   • If Using Dried Beans:
     Soak the dried beans overnight in a large bowl of water. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a large pot. Cover with fresh water, add a bay leaf, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until the beans are tender. Drain the beans, season with salt, and set them aside.

   • If Using Canned Beans:
     Drain and rinse the beans, then set them aside for use. This is a quicker option when you're short on time.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Fresh and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
   Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them down for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they break down and create a rich, chunky sauce. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, which add a deep, tangy flavor to the dish.

4. Season the Sauce:
   Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Incorporate the Beans:
   Gently fold in the cooked or canned beans. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, letting the beans absorb the tomato sauce and become infused with flavor.

6. Add the Mozzarella:
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the beans. Cover the pan and let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for dipping.

8. Relax and Savor:
   Enjoy this comforting bowl of Marry Me Beans with a glass of wine, savoring the warmth and richness of this dish in your new home.

Why I Love This Recipe:

Cooking my first meal in my Dijon apartment was more than just about food—it was about creating a sense of home. Marry Me Beans, with its fresh, flavorful ingredients and comforting textures, made that first night extra special. Whether you’re using dried beans for a more traditional approach or canned beans for convenience, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and soul.

As always you can check out my cooking video for this on my IG under Recipes highlight reel! 

Marry Me Beans is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a sense of home, no matter where you are. Perfect for a cozy evening, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Bon appétit!