
Place dried butter beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight. Drain and rinse.
(Short on time? For the quick soak method bring beans to a boil for 2 minutes, turn off heat, cover, and let sit 1 hour. Drain and rinse.)
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat garlic infused olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add soaked beans and add just enough broth to cover the beans. Season the broth with a bay leaf, salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover partially and simmer 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally (maybe every 30 minutes), until beans are tender and creamy. The more you stir the creamier the beans will be.
If needed during cooking add more broth or a splash of water.
When the beans are done remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve warm with cornbread.