Cozy nights call for comforting, creamy dishes that warm the heart and soul. One such staple is the humble white bean, which pairs perfectly with a medley of flavors to create satisfying and savory meals. In this collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes, we’ll explore the many ways you can incorporate creamy white beans into your cooking repertoire.
From hearty soups and stews to flavorful dips and spreads, these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of white beans in all their glory. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, there’s something here for everyone. So grab a spoon and dig in – your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cannellini beans, making it a perfect wintertime treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broth, beans, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat; let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Kale Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients. With cannellini beans, wilted kale, and a hint of garlic, it’s a delightful meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cannellini beans, kale, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is wilted.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Bean and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the creamy richness of cannellini beans and the earthy aroma of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat.
3. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. In a large pot, combine roasted potatoes, cannellini beans, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. Mash the potato mixture with butter until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a one-pot meal. Tender white beans, spicy Italian sausage, and aromatics come together in a rich and satisfying culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb White Bean Dip
Lemon Herb White Bean Dip Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful dip perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This recipe combines the creaminess of white beans with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beans, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is a no-cook recipe.
White Bean and Spinach Stuffed Portobellos
A savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobellos with creamy white beans and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel. Remove stems and gills.
3. In a bowl, mix together cannellini beans, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bean mixture, mounding slightly in center.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky White Bean and Bacon Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, creamy white beans, and tender vegetables, all simmered together in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of smoked bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked and drained white beans, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked bacon.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Bean and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of cannellini beans with the bright flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, cooked cannellini beans, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Add reserved pasta water and stir to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the bean and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic White Bean Hummus
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and aromatic dip, perfect for veggies, crackers, or pita chips. This roasted garlic white bean hummus combines the nutty flavor of cannellini beans with the pungency of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons tahini
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other garnishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, until soft and mashed.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the beans, roasted garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and tahini. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly add the water and continue blending until creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with paprika, parsley, or other herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
White Bean and Butternut Squash Chili
This comforting and nutritious chili combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the butternut squash for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
3. Add the cooked squash, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
White Bean and Avocado Toast
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious twist on traditional toast. This recipe combines the creaminess of cannellini beans with the richness of avocado for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked white beans (cannellini or navy work well)
– 2 slices whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Mix in the cooked white beans with a fork until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean White Bean Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Mediterranean White Bean Salad combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cannellini beans, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
White Bean and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the comforting flavors of cannellini beans and sautéed mushrooms with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup to the risotto mixture and stir until almost fully absorbed. Repeat, adding remaining broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in butter, cannellini beans, salt, and pepper. Serve with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Chorizo Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the creaminess of white beans with the spicy kick of chorizo sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the bean and chorizo mixture onto a tortilla and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Leek Gratin
A comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this creamy gratin combines the natural sweetness of white beans with the subtle flavor of leeks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the leeks and onion in butter until tender.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain and rinse the soaked white beans, then add them to the skillet along with the cooked leek mixture.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Bean and Pesto Flatbread
This flavorful flatbread combines creamy cannellini beans with the vibrant taste of basil pesto, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade dough)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the cannellini beans evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the beans, followed by the pesto.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the flavors have melded together.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Bean and Tomato Coconut Curry
This creamy and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, white beans, and sweet tomatoes, all wrapped up in the richness of coconut milk. Serve it over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the white beans and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Sage Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory stuffing recipe, featuring creamy cannellini beans and the warm, earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beans, bread cubes, and skillet mixture. Mix well to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
This savory tart combines sweet caramelized onions with creamy white beans, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and beans in olive oil until heated through.
5. Arrange cooked onion mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges. Top with bean mixture.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tsp water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Bean and Roasted Red Pepper Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup combines the comforting warmth of white beans with the sweet and smoky depth of roasted red peppers. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups roasted red peppers (see note), peeled and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot 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. Stir in the roasted red peppers, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these delicious and creamy white bean recipes! From soups to stews, pasta dishes, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup or Creamy White Bean and Kale Stew for a comforting meal. Or get creative with White Bean and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes, Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Skillet, or White Bean and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. And don’t forget the dips, like Lemon Herb White Bean Dip or Roasted Garlic White Bean Hummus! With these 20 recipes, you’ll be set for a cozy night in.
