As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a hearty, comforting bowl of beans to warm up your cozy nights. Among the many types of beans out there, Great Northern beans are a popular choice for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Whether you’re looking for a slow-cooked stew or a quick sautéed side dish, Great Northern beans can be used in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and diverse recipes that showcase the versatility of Great Northern beans. From classic soups to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Creamy Great Northern Bean Soup with Rosemary
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. The creamy texture and subtle rosemary flavor make it a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and rosemary; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and blend in batches.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Garlicky Great Northern Beans and Spinach Sauté
This hearty and flavorful side dish combines the natural sweetness of Great Northern beans with the pungency of garlic and the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a comforting accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soaked and drained Great Northern beans, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
5. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans with Ham Hock
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Great Northern beans with the savory flavor of a ham hock.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham hock
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the soaked and drained Great Northern beans, ham hock, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and brown sugar to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the ham hock from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, remove the meat from the bone and return it to the beans.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Great Northern Bean and Kale Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy beans, tender kale, and savory flavors. A great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a nutritious meal option for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, kale, vegetable broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baked Great Northern Beans with Bacon and Molasses
Baked Great Northern Beans with Bacon and Molasses: A hearty, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, molasses, ground mustard, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 8-10 hours or overnight.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Great Northern Bean and Sausage Cassoulet
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of Great Northern beans, sausage, and traditional cassoulet spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or casserole dish, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave any drippings in the pot.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the soaked and drained Great Northern beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to distribute evenly.
7. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
8. Remove the foil and top with crumbled bacon (if using). Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Mediterranean Great Northern Bean Salad
This hearty salad combines the comforting warmth of Great Northern beans with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the soaked Great Northern beans and enough water to cover them by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Drain the cooked beans and add to the pan with the onion mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Stir in the chopped olives, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Great Northern Bean Hummus with Lemon and Garlic
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and tangy dip, perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or as a spread. Great Northern beans add a unique texture and flavor to traditional hummus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Great Northern beans, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add tahini, olive oil, and pepper; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika, parsley, or other herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation time only)
Spicy Great Northern Bean Chili
Warm up with this hearty and spicy chili recipe featuring tender Great Northern beans in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Great Northern beans, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Vegetable Curry
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of Great Northern beans with a flavorful blend of vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Herbed Great Northern Bean and Tomato Bake
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe combines the comforting taste of great northern beans with the brightness of fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine beans, water or broth, onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy Great Northern beans, and savory spices. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 ounces) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, onions, garlic, and bell pepper.
2. Add the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add the Great Northern beans and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Smoky Great Northern Beans with Andouille Sausage
This hearty dish combines tender great northern beans with the rich flavor of smoky andouille sausage, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried great northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Great Northern Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines creamy Great Northern beans with crumbly cornbread, perfect for a cozy evening meal or potluck. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the bean mixture (see note).
6. Top with cornbread batter and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Mushroom Ragout
A comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for a cozy evening. This ragout is made with tender Great Northern beans, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the Great Northern beans and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon-Pepper Great Northern Beans with Greens
Lemon-Pepper Great Northern Beans with Greens: A Bright and Refreshing Side Dish
These creamy beans are infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of black pepper, making them a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses. This recipe combines the comforting flavor of Great Northern beans with the earthy taste of greens, all in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 bunch fresh kale or spinach, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beans, chicken broth, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in black pepper and lemon juice.
4. Add chopped greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Sweet Potato Hash
This comforting hash combines the nutty flavor of Great Northern beans with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. With its simple preparation and minimal ingredients, this recipe is a great way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine Great Northern beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Meanwhile, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Drain cooked beans and add to skillet along with roasted sweet potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Pasta Minestrone
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the creamy goodness of Great Northern beans with al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 8 ounces pasta (such as elbow macaroni or shells)
– 1 cup frozen green beans, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add soaked Great Northern beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, green beans, and basil. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Avocado Tacos
This recipe combines the creamy texture of Great Northern beans with the freshness of avocado and crunchy taco shells, creating a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional tacos. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a unique addition to your next taco Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together Great Northern beans, avocado, red onion, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning bean and avocado mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. These stuffed peppers are packed with tender Great Northern beans, savory rice, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups cooked Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add rice, beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean and rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 delicious Great Northern bean recipes! From hearty soups to flavorful casseroles, these comforting dishes are perfect for a chilly night in. Whether you’re craving creamy and savory, spicy and smoky, or herby and fresh, we’ve got you covered. Try making a Creamy Great Northern Bean Soup with Rosemary, Garlicky Great Northern Beans and Spinach Sauté, or Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans with Ham Hock. And for dessert? How about Baked Great Northern Beans with Bacon and Molasses! Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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