This “Easy Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas” dish is a delightful mix of hearty chickpeas and gooey cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
I swear this dish might just win you a proposal! Just throw everything together, bake, and watch how it disappears quicker than you can say “cheese.” 😄
It’s a perfect weeknight meal for me since it’s super easy to make. I love serving it with crusty bread for scooping up every cheesy bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: They provide protein and texture. If you’re short on chickpeas, you can use white beans or lentils as alternatives. They won’t give the exact same flavor but will still work well with the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have them, diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can substitute. Just be aware that fresh tomatoes will add moisture, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the dish rich and creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or for dairy-free, coconut cream works great! I often opt for coconut cream for a unique flavor twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan make it super cheesy. You can substitute with any other melting cheese, like cheddar or gouda. If you’re vegan, try a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard make great substitutes. Just be sure to chop them finely since they’re a bit tougher than spinach.
How Do I Keep the Cheese Sauce Smooth?
Getting a smooth, cheesy sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to do it! The key is to add the cheese gradually while stirring. Here are some tips:
- Ensure the cream is simmering before adding cheese. This helps it melt evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat once all the cheese is added. Overheating can lead to a gritty texture.
- Stir continuously, allowing the cheese to melt before adding more. Patience is key!
Following these steps will help ensure your sauce is creamy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this is where the magic begins!
2. Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the drained chickpeas and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Mix everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This will warm the chickpeas and infuse them with garlic and spice flavors.
3. Pour in the Cream:
Now, it’s time for the cream! Pour in your heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, as it thickens slightly and makes the base creamy.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring continuously until the cheese has melted into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. This should only take a few minutes—be patient and watch the magic happen!
5. Add the Spinach:
Now, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Don’t forget to season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste—this enhances all the flavors!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley if you’d like a fresh pop of flavor. Serve your delicious cheesy chickpeas immediately with crusty bread for dipping and scoop up all that goodness!
There you go! Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and cheesy chickpea dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also irresistibly delicious!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Yes! This recipe calls for canned chickpeas, which are convenient and ready to use. Just make sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium and improve their flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works great. Just note that coconut cream adds a subtle sweetness and tropical flavor.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce during cooking. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
