Description
Southern-Style Butter Beans are a classic comfort-food side dish known for their rich, savory flavor and ultra-creamy texture. Slowly simmered with smoky bacon, butter, and aromatic vegetables, these beans become tender and deeply satisfying, making them a staple on Southern tables.
Introduction
Butter beans, also known as large lima beans, have long been a cornerstone of Southern cooking. When prepared low and slow with simple, flavorful ingredients, they transform into a hearty, soul-warming dish. This recipe honors that tradition by allowing the beans to gently absorb the flavors of bacon, herbs, and broth until perfectly creamy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is deeply comforting and full of classic Southern flavor.
The beans turn tender and creamy without becoming mushy.
It uses simple, affordable pantry ingredients.
It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes.
It improves in flavor as it rests, making it great for leftovers.
Ingredients
1 pound dried lima beans
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 yellow onion, diced
½ cup shredded carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
2 bay leaves
½ cup butter (1 stick)
4 cups chicken broth
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Soaking is optional but highly recommended for even cooking.
For an overnight soak, place the beans in a large bowl, cover with plenty of cold water, and soak overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
For a quick soak, place the beans in a large pot, cover with water by about 1 inch, bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Add the diced onion, shredded carrots, minced garlic, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Beans
Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot along with the bay leaves, butter, and chicken broth. Add additional water if needed so the beans are covered by about 1 inch of liquid.
Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more liquid as needed to keep the beans submerged. Cook until the beans are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Stir the reserved bacon back into the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve hot.
Variations
Use smoked ham hock or smoked turkey instead of bacon for deeper smokiness.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Stir in a splash of cream at the end for extra richness.
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
Simmer gently to prevent the beans from breaking apart.
Do not add too much salt at the beginning; season fully near the end.
Skim excess foam from the surface during cooking if needed.
Allow the beans to rest for 10 minutes before serving to thicken naturally.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
These beans also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or smoked sausage.
Pair with cornbread or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.
Enjoy as a hearty vegetarian-style main with greens and rice.
FAQs
Can I use canned butter beans?
Canned beans can be used in a pinch, but the texture and flavor will be less rich. Reduce cooking time significantly.
Do butter beans and lima beans taste the same?
Yes. Butter beans are simply mature lima beans with a creamier texture.
Why are my beans still firm?
Old beans or insufficient simmer time can cause firmness. Continue cooking and add liquid as needed.
Conclusion
Southern-Style Butter Beans are a timeless comfort dish that showcases how simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying, they belong on every traditional Southern table. Once you make them this way, they are sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.