This Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas dish is a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. Chickpeas are blended with creamy cheese and spices to create a deliciously cheesy goodness!
Honestly, once you taste this mix of cheese and chickpeas, you might even want to propose to it! 😄 I enjoy serving it with rice or bread to soak up every bit of that cheesy sauce—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star of the show! Canned chickpeas are convenient, but dried chickpeas work well too—just soak and cook them beforehand. If you need a different protein source, lentils can be a great substitute.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds wonderful color and nutrition. Frozen spinach can also be used; just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding. Kale may work too, but it will require a bit more cooking time.
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for that stretchy, gooey effect! If you’re going dairy-free, nut-based cheese or vegan mozzarella can do the trick. For more flavor, try adding sharp cheddar or feta instead of Parmesan.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich, creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut milk is a great substitute. You can also use cashew cream for a vegan approach.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Is Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that creamy texture is essential for this dish. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Heat the mixture gently after adding cream. Rapid boiling can cause it to separate.
- Stir in cheese slowly and continuously. This helps it melt evenly into the sauce.
- If the sauce seems thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or additional cream to reach your desired consistency.
Remember, keeping the heat low and stirring often leads to that luxurious, creamy sauce you want!
Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or vegan alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Bread or cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent. This brings out the sweetness of the onion!
2. Add Garlic and Spice:
Mix in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Incorporate Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the drained chickpeas and diced sun-dried tomatoes. Allow everything to cook together for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Add Fresh Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. There’s something so nice about that vibrant green color!
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and stir until everything is combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; this will help it thicken.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy and thickened. If it seems too thick, add a splash more cream or some broth to loosen it up.
7. Season to Taste:
Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—it’s all about your preference!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and garnish the dish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve warm with crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up that delicious cheesy sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Now you’re ready to indulge in your cozy and comforting Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Yes, using canned chickpeas is convenient and quick! Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding to the recipe. If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture. Additionally, use vegan mozzarella cheese and skip the Parmesan, or use a vegan alternative if desired.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
