When it comes to comforting, versatile, and deliciously nutritious ingredients, few can rival the humble white bean. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup to warm up on a chilly day or a tasty dip to accompany your favorite snacks, these creamy white beans are the perfect addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible range of flavors and textures that can be achieved with these versatile little legumes.
From classic soups and stews to modern twists on traditional dishes, our collection features a diverse array of creamy white bean recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes.
Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup
This comforting soup combines the richness of white beans with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal effort, you’ll create a deliciously creamy and aromatic soup that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring soup to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Kale Stew
A comforting and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Rosemary Dip
Elevate your snacking game with this flavorful and aromatic dip, perfect for dipping crudités or crackers. This hearty blend of cannellini beans, rosemary, and garlic is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked cannellini beans, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Herb White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, rosemary, and parsley.
2. Add the cannellini beans and toss until they are well coated with the lemon mixture.
3. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy White Bean and Chorizo Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew combines the creaminess of cannellini beans with the spicy kick of chorizo, perfect for a cozy night in. Simmering the ingredients together allows the rich flavors to meld, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in smoked paprika and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and white wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Bacon Chowder
This comforting soup combines the creamy texture of white beans with the smoky flavor of bacon, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious chowder in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, and cooked bacon back into the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup, depending on your desired consistency.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Mediterranean White Bean and Tomato Bake
Mediterranean White Bean and Tomato Bake: A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the richness of cannellini beans with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cannellini beans, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange tomato halves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the bean mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Bean and Spinach Stuffed Portobellos
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the creamy richness of white beans and spinach, making for a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 can (15 oz) 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, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cannellini beans, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Wipe mushrooms clean with damp paper towels and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the bean and spinach mixture evenly among the mushroom caps, spooning it into the cavities.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
White Bean and Avocado Toast
This recipe combines the creamy richness of cannellini beans with the velvety texture of ripe avocados, all on top of crispy whole grain toast. It’s a perfect snack for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 4 slices whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or toaster oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice.
4. Spoon the cannellini beans over the avocado, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Smoky White Bean and Sausage Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines the smoky flavor of sausage with the creamy richness of white beans, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Roasted Garlic Hummus
Elevate your hummus game with this creamy and aromatic dip that combines the richness of white beans and roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves roasted garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked white beans, roasted garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, salt, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve at room temperature with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus roasting time for garlic)
White Bean and Butternut Squash Curry
This hearty curry combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, cannellini beans, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
White Bean and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines creamy cannellini beans with the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a rich and tangy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in cannellini beans, white wine (if using), basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the bean and tomato sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Mushroom Risotto
This comforting risotto recipe combines tender white beans, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic garlic for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
4. Add broth, one cup at a time, stirring until each portion is mostly absorbed before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in mushrooms and white beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Chicken Chili
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly day, this White Bean and Chicken Chili combines the richness of white beans with the tenderness of chicken. With a hint of smokiness from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, broth, chipotle pepper, and cumin.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Herb Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with the creamy goodness of cannellini beans, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the cannellini beans using a fork or potato masher.
2. Add flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and egg to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the bean mixture into the oil, forming fritters.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
White Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
This savory tart combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of white beans, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark golden brown.
4. Stir in garlic, beans, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spread the bean and onion mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
White Bean and Pesto Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this flavorful combination of creamy white beans and vibrant pesto, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then shape into a ball.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
6. Spread white beans and pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Bean and Coconut Milk Soup
This comforting soup combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the earthy flavor of cannellini beans, perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious and nutritious soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini 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 (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and coconut milk.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Bean and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This flavorful dip combines the creaminess of cannellini beans with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chopped red peppers on a baking sheet, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked beans, roasted peppers, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth, adding up to 2 tablespoons of water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time) + 5 minutes (blending)
Summary
Looking for creamy white bean recipes to spice up your meals? Look no further! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes is sure to satisfy your cravings. From soups and stews to dips, salads, and more, these recipes showcase the versatility of white beans. Try Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup or Creamy White Bean and Kale Stew for a comforting meal. Or go bold with Spicy White Bean and Chorizo Stew or White Bean and Avocado Toast for a flavorful twist. Whatever your taste, there’s something on this list to delight your palate.
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