This Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas dish is a fun mix of creamy cheese and hearty chickpeas. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor—perfect for a cozy meal!
I love serving this with some warm bread to scoop it up. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to marry a dish this tasty? It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These little powerhouses give the dish its base. If you’re short on canned chickpeas, feel free to use dried ones—just soak and cook them beforehand.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option or are dairy-free, coconut cream works wonderfully. It adds a slight sweetness that complements the flavors!
Cheese: Mozzarella brings gooeyness, while Parmesan adds depth. If you’re out of Parmesan, pecorino or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes for a similar flavor. Cheese alternatives are also available for a dairy-free version.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can also work. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if adding fresh tomatoes.
How Do I Make Sure My Chickpeas Are Perfectly Cooked?
Using canned chickpeas is quick and easy but if you go for dried ones, preparation is key. Make sure to soak them overnight, which helps them cook faster and more evenly.
- After soaking, boil the chickpeas in fresh water for about 1-2 hours until tender.
- Check them regularly, and add water as needed to keep them submerged.
This method ensures they have the right texture in the final dish—creamy and soft without being mushy!
Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to preference)
- 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and easy meal that’s rich and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, stirring them gently until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter!
2. Add the Spices:
Stir in the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds—this will help release the spices’ flavors and aromas!
3. Combine the Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally!
5. Add the Cheeses:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and fully incorporated, creating that dreamy, cheesy sauce we all love!
6. Stir in the Spinach:
Fold in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, which should only take about 2 minutes. The vibrant green looks fantastic in this dish too!
7. Season and Garnish:
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once happy with the flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. It’s all about that fresh kick!
8. Serve:
Serve this cheesy chickpea delight hot, ideally with some crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of pasta or rice. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
This creamy, cheesy chickpea skillet is packed with flavor and is perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or side dish! 💖🧀
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version, which adds a nice touch of sweetness. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half or cashew cream can also work well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Cheesy Marry Me Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! Just soak about 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight, then cook them until tender before adding them to the skillet in place of canned chickpeas. It will take a bit more time, but the flavor is fantastic!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, or you can serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a more filling meal. A simple salad on the side would also complement it nicely!
