5 Best Substitutes for Butter Beans
Butter beans are a staple in many kitchens. Their creamy texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor make them a popular ingredient in soups, stews, casseroles, and salads.
However, if you’re unable to find butter beans at your local grocery store or simply looking for a change, there are plenty of substitutes that can give your dishes a similar taste and texture.
I’ll explore with you some of the best substitutes for butter beans that you can try out in your cooking.


What are butter beans?
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are a type of legume that originated in Peru.
They are large, flat, and creamy white in color, with a buttery texture and a nutty flavor.
They’re a good source of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
You can use them in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, chilis, and dips.
5 Best substitutes for butter beans
Cannellini beans
Cannellini beans are a great overall substitute for butter beans. They are similar in size, shape, and texture and have a mild flavor that complements various ingredients.
Cannellini beans are also high in protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are another good substitute for butter beans. They have a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor and are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron.
Chickpeas are also very versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as hummus, salads, and stews.
Navy beans
Navy beans are small, white beans with a mild flavor and creamy texture. They are often used in chili but can also be used as a substitute for butter beans.
Navy beans are high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Great Northern beans
Great Northern beans are another good substitute for butter beans. They are similar in size and texture and have a mild flavor that complements a wide range of ingredients.
Great Northern beans are also high in protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Borlotti beans
Borlotti beans are a type of kidney bean that is popular in Italian cuisine and can be used as a substitute for butter beans.
They are medium-sized, with cream-colored skin and red speckles, and have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
Borlotti beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
They are often used in pasta dishes, soups, and stews but can be used as a substitute for butter beans in many other recipes as well.
Conclusion
If you’re unable to find butter beans or simply looking for a substitute, there are plenty of options available.
Cannellini beans, chickpeas, navy beans, Great Northern beans, and borlotti beans are all great alternatives that can be used.


5 Excellent Substitute for Butter Beans
Ingredients
- Cannellini Beans
- Navy Beans
- Chickpeas
- Great Northern Beans
- Borlotti Beans
Instructions
- Choice your favourite substitute from the ingredients above.
- Follow the preparation directions for your chosen substitute with the correct ingredient ratio.