Sides · Greek

Greek Baked Butter Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

Sofia Romano

Recipe by Sofia Romano

Pasta & Mediterranean · August 12, 2026

These plump white beans bake low and slow in a garlicky tomato sauce until they soak up every bit of flavor and the top turns jammy and rich. It is humble, vegetarian comfort food that tastes even better the next day. Serve it warm or at room temperature with crusty bread and a wedge of feta.

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Greek Baked Butter Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

Why you'll love this

  • Simple pantry ingredients turn into something rich and satisfying.
  • Naturally vegetarian and packed with plant protein and fiber.
  • Tastes even better the next day, so it is great for meal prep.
  • Delicious warm or at room temperature.

EveryDayMeal recipe

Greek Baked Butter Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

Prep
15m
Cook
110m
Total
125m
Serves
4
Level
Easy

Ingredients

  • about 2 cups (14 oz) dried butter beans
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • about 1 3/4 pounds (28 oz) chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • a pinch ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Large ovenproof baking dish
  • Colander

Instructions

  1. Soak the dried butter beans overnight in a big bowl of cold water so they plump up and cook evenly. Drain and rinse them well the next day.
  2. Put the soaked beans in a large pot, cover generously with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 50 minutes, until the beans are just tender but still hold their shape, since they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat your oven to 350 degrees F. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and translucent but not browned, so the sauce tastes sweet instead of sharp.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor, then add the tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and cinnamon. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to bring everything together, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Stir the drained beans into the sauce, then tip the whole thing into a large ovenproof baking dish and spread it level.
  6. Bake uncovered, without stirring, for about 1 hour, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened and darkened around the edges.
  7. Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then scatter with fresh parsley and drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving.

Tips from the kitchen

  • Do not skip the overnight soak; unsoaked beans stay tough and cook unevenly.
  • Undercook the beans slightly on the stove so they do not turn mushy during the hour in the oven.
  • Resist stirring while it bakes, since leaving it alone lets the top caramelize and the sauce thicken.

Estimated nutrition per serving: 340 cal · 14g protein · 48g carbs · 12g fat

Make it your own

  • Stir in crumbled feta over the top for the last 15 minutes of baking.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Short on time? Use two 15 oz cans of drained butter beans and skip the soak and simmer.

Storing & make-ahead

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a 325 degree F oven or the microwave, or enjoy cold. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Good to know

Can I use canned beans?
Yes. Use two 15 oz cans of drained, rinsed butter beans and skip the soaking and stovetop simmering. Cut the oven time to about 40 minutes.
What are gigantes beans exactly?
They are large white Greek beans, similar to butter beans or large lima beans, which is why butter beans make a great substitute.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. It actually improves overnight as the flavors settle. Bake it, cool it, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.
What do I serve it with?
Crusty bread, feta cheese, and a simple green salad turn it into a full light meal, or serve it alongside grilled meat or fish.

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