If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful, and nourishing meal to brighten your day, look no further than this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew. It combines tender white beans, luscious cherry tomatoes, and a velvety touch of vegan cream cheese to create a satisfying stew that feels both hearty and fresh. Each spoonful bursts with rich tomato goodness, a hint of garlic warmth, and just the right amount of creaminess. This stew is wonderfully easy to prepare yet so rewarding, making it a personal favorite to share with friends or to cozy up with on any day.

Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are beautifully simple but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, lovely texture, and vibrant color. From the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes to the silky creaminess of vegan cream cheese, every element contributes to the stew’s irresistible character.

Small yellow onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed gently.
Cherry tomatoes (8 oz., halved): Bring a burst of freshness and juiciness that brightens the stew.
Garlic cloves (4, minced): Infuse the dish with a warm, savory depth.
Sun-dried tomatoes (¼ cup, chopped): Add an intense, concentrated tomato flavor and a bit of chew.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Boosts the stew’s richness and umami.
Cannelini beans (1 15-oz can, drained and rinsed): Provide a creamy, satisfying protein and silky texture.
Vegetable broth (1¼ cup): Creates the flavorful liquid base for the stew.
Arrowroot starch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the stew gently without altering the taste.
Baby greens (2 cups, such as arugula or spinach): Add freshness and a tender bite as they wilt into the stew.
Vegan cream cheese (¼ cup): Provides the dreamy creaminess that makes this a truly creamy tomato white bean stew.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
Small lemon (juiced): Adds a bright, tangy snap to elevate the stew.
Fresh basil (¼ cup, sliced): Perfect herbaceous garnish to finish the dish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Tomatoes

Start by heating a tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until they begin to break down and soften. This creates a flavorful, slightly sweet base that makes this stew shine.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Flavor

Add the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir constantly for about a minute until the garlic releases its aroma and the tomato paste darkens slightly, which develops a rich, concentrated tomato depth that is essential for a cozy stew.

Step 3: Prepare the Thickening Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a small splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This slurry will help thicken the stew without heaviness or clouding the beautiful flavors.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Beans

Pour the rest of the vegetable broth into the saucepan, stirring the arrowroot mixture in as well. Add the rinsed white beans, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let it cook gently for about 5 minutes until the stew thickens slightly and the beans are heated through, melding all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Greens

Lower the heat and add the vegan cream cheese to the pot, stirring until it melts smoothly into the stew, adding that signature creamy texture. Then mix in the baby greens and cook just until they are wilted and tender. Finally, stir in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Before serving, sprinkle sliced fresh basil on top for a burst of herbaceous aroma and a pop of color. Your luscious Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is now ready to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Garnishes

Topping your stew with fresh basil is a must: it adds a fresh, slightly peppery note that complements the creamy tomato base perfectly. For an added crunch and texture, consider toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy rice or nutty quinoa to soak up all the rich juices, or enjoy it alongside crusty artisan bread or warm toast for dipping. It’s also fantastic over a bed of sautéed greens for an even more nutrient-packed meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew into hollowed-out roasted bell peppers or serve it atop crispy polenta rounds. You can also ladle it into large, warm bowls, garnish with basil, and finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a lovely, rustic presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making for delicious meals the next day.

Freezing

This stew freezes wonderfully, too. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency as it thickens in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans in this stew?

Absolutely! While cannelini beans offer a creamy texture, you can substitute great northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas for a different twist. Just make sure to rinse and drain well if using canned beans.

Is the creamy texture dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe uses vegan cream cheese to keep the stew creamy while being completely dairy-free and suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

Can I make this stew spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion or stir in a dash of hot sauce at the end to give the stew a spicy kick that pairs nicely with its richness.

What can I substitute for arrowroot starch?

If you don’t have arrowroot starch, cornstarch or tapioca starch work just as well to thicken the stew. Simply use the same amount and mix it with some broth before adding to the pot to avoid lumps.

Is this stew suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge and freezer, reheats beautifully, and makes for a nourishing lunch or dinner anytime during the week.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew a try—it’s one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and wonderfully versatile for any season. Whip it up when you want something nourishing that will delight every bite with creamy, tangy, and savory notes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your heart (and belly) will thank you!