Getting ready to cook with one of your favorite legumes? Look no further! Great Northern beans are a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. These creamy, tender beans pack a nutritional punch and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From comforting soups and stews to flavorful casseroles and salads, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious Great Northern bean recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm up on a chilly day or a light and refreshing side dish to accompany your favorite protein, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations like sausage and herbs to international flavors like Mexican and Indian-inspired dishes, we’ll be sharing some of the best Great Northern bean recipes out there.
Creamy Great Northern Bean Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory flavors, showcasing the comforting taste of Great Northern beans. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a bright and refreshing touch to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, 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 soaked Great Northern beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half; adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Garlic Rosemary Great Northern Beans and Sausage
This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked beans with savory sausage, all infused with the pungency of garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, rosemary, sausage, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the soaked Great Northern beans to the pot, covering with enough water to cover by at least 1 inch.
6. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans with Ham Hock
This comforting recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, featuring tender Great Northern beans slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with a savory ham hock. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans
– 1 ham hock (about 2 pounds)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Great Northern beans and pick out any debris or stones.
2. Place the ham hock, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
3. Add the beans, chicken broth, and water to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the ham hock from the slow cooker and shred the meat; return it to the pot.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Great Northern Bean and Kale Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The combination of creamy beans, tender kale, and aromatic spices will fill your home with a delicious aroma.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and continue to cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy Great Northern Bean Chili
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Spicy Great Northern Bean Chili, perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the comforting taste of beans and chili powder with a kick of heat from diced jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, chopped (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Bacon Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender beans, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy topping. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the same pot and cook until softened.
4. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and crushed crackers.
6. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the bacon-cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Great Northern Bean Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the creamy texture of Great Northern beans with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Great Northern beans according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add the cooked beans, onion, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)
Great Northern Bean Hummus with Lemon
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and tangy Great Northern Bean Hummus infused with the brightness of lemon. Perfect for dipping veggies, crackers, or pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the cooked Great Northern beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the beans, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the olive oil and water. Continue blending until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a lemon wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe combines the comfort of slow-cooked beans with the richness of chicken and cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add cooked chicken and Great Northern beans; stir to combine.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of the bean and chicken mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling up and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Great Northern Beans with Andouille Sausage
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked Great Northern beans and spicy Andouille sausage. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Great Northern Bean and Spinach Curry
This comforting curry is a perfect blend of creamy beans, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Tomato Bruschetta
Savor the flavors of summer with this hearty and refreshing bruschetta recipe that combines the richness of Great Northern beans with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes. Perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine Great Northern beans, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted bread with bean mixture, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Cornbread Bake
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Great Northern beans with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for a cozy evening or family gathering. This one-pot dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine soaked beans, chicken broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Stir in cornbread mix until combined, then top with grated cheese (if using).
4. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 20-25 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the comforting warmth of Great Northern beans with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soaked and drained Great Northern beans, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beans are heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Avocado Tacos
This recipe combines the creamy texture of Great Northern beans with the freshness of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. A perfect blend of plant-based protein and healthy fats, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, cooked according to package instructions
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked Great Northern beans, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm tortillas according to package instructions or grill until slightly charred.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning bean-avocado mixture onto tortillas.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 20 minutes (includes cooking time for beans)
Great Northern Bean and Mushroom Risotto
This comforting dish combines the creamy richness of risotto with the wholesome goodness of Great Northern beans and savory mushrooms, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, and rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is creamy and tender.
6. Stir in cooked Great Northern beans and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Sweet Potato Hash
This comforting recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the creamy goodness of Great Northern beans, all wrapped up in a crispy hash. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 ounces) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in Great Northern beans, roasted sweet potato, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Pesto Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of Great Northern beans with the bright, herby taste of pesto for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked Great Northern beans and stir to combine with the oil.
3. Stir in the pesto until well combined with the beans.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the bean-pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Great Northern Bean and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the rich flavor of Great Northern beans with the savory goodness of sausage. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked Great Northern beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked Great Northern beans.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage and bean mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle olive oil over peppers and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Great Northern Bean and Coconut Milk Stew
This comforting stew combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the wholesome goodness of Great Northern beans, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional bean stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with Great Northern Beans! With 20 delicious recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for this versatile and nutritious legume. From creamy soups to hearty stews, flavorful casseroles, and even international twists, these recipes showcase the best of Great Northern Beans. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a healthy snack, there’s something here for every occasion.
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