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–+ servings
Merry

Easy 10-Minute Beans and Greens

This broccoli cheddar creamy beans recipe is the ultimate comfort food—simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Tender broccoli, creamy cannellini beans, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish and ready in just 20 minutes!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 to 3 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 3/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 10 to 12-ounce bag frozen chopped broccoli or broccoli cuts
  • 4 ounces 1 packed cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Garlic
  2. Heat the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the Beans and Broth
  5. Stir in the cannellini beans and pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Mash the Beans
  8. Use a masher or wooden spoon to mash about 1/4 of the beans directly in the pot. This will help create a creamy texture.
  9. Cook the Broccoli
  10. Add the frozen broccoli to the pot, stir to combine, and cover with a lid.
  11. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 6 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  12. Melt the Cheese
  13. Reduce the heat to low and stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese until melted.
  14. Add the remaining cheese and stir until creamy and fully incorporated.
  15. Season and Serve
  16. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  17. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Broccoli Options: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it before adding to the dish.
  • Texture Control: Adjust the amount of broth based on how creamy or soup-like you prefer the dish.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Swap sharp cheddar with Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cheese and vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version.

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