Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans

These Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans deliver comfort in every bite—like your favorite soup, but with an extra boost of fiber and plant-based protein from the beans. Tender butter beans create a creamy, rich base, while bright green broccoli florets add texture, freshness and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the melted cheese. As the ingredients simmer together in one pan, the mixture thickens into a consistency that’s spoonable, scoopable and perfect for serving with slices of whole-wheat toast. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a simple meal that feels special, this one-pan wonder hits all the right notes. Ready to see for yourself? Check out some expert tips and tricks below!

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too! 

• Use bagged broccoli florets for an easy short cut. Just make sure to trim them into ½-inch pieces so they cook uniformly. 
• Try extra-sharp Cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor, or use mild cheddar to mellow it out a little.
• Let the sauce stand in the pan for a minute or two before you add the cheese to prevent it from seizing and breaking. For best meltability and texture, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded.

Nutrition Notes

• Beans are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, two nutrients that can help you maintain a healthy weight and feel full for longer. The fiber in beans can also support overall gut health. Opt for no-salt-added beans to reduce excess sodium. 
• Broccoli contains the phytochemical sulforaphane, which has been shown to reduce risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon and skin. The cruciferous vegetable is also a good source of vitamin K to support bone health. 
• Cheddar cheese offers some protein to this dish, and also brings calcium to the table. Calcium is important for bone health, blood circulation and muscle and nerve functions. Cheddar may also contain probiotics to support gut and oral health.