Butter Beans

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this hearty Butter Beans recipe, a Southern classic that brings rich, savory flavor to your table. Made with tender baby lima beans simmered to perfection in a robust blend of chicken or vegetable broth, smoked ham hock or bacon, and aromatic garlic and onion, this dish is elevated with a touch of butter for creaminess and optional paprika for an extra layer of warmth. Whether you're soaking the beans overnight or opting for a quick-soak method, the result is a pot of velvety, soulful beans that are perfect as a standalone dish or a flavorful side. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside cornbread or roasted meats for a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. This recipe is not just about taste—it’s an experience that highlights the best of slow-simmered, home-cooked goodness. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it's a dish that's both timeless and irresistibly delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried butter beans (baby lima beans)
• 6 cups water
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 piece smoked ham hock or diced smoked bacon
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Sort through the dried butter beans to remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse them well under cold water.

Step 2

Place the butter beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight, or use the quick-soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, and let them soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before cooking.

Step 3

In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked and drained butter beans with 6 cups of water and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well.

Step 4

Add the smoked ham hock or diced smoked bacon to the pot along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and partially cover the pot with a lid. Simmer the beans for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth or water if needed during cooking to keep the beans covered.

Step 6

When the beans are tender and creamy, stir in the butter, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Remove the ham hock (if using). If desired, shred the meat from the ham hock and stir it back into the beans for extra flavor.

Step 8

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Butter beans pair beautifully with cornbread or as a side for roasted meats.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3074.5 grams (3074.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2000

Total Fat 55.40g	71%
Saturated Fat 28.10g	141%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 152mg	51%
Sodium 7000mg	304%
Total Carbohydrate 272.20g	99%
Dietary Fiber 79.60g	284%
Total Sugars 40.90g
Protein 114.40g	229%

Vitamin D 21IU	107%
Calcium 531mg	41%
Iron 33mg	184%
Potassium 7612mg	162%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 24.4%

Protein: 22.4%

Carbs: 53.2%