20 Delicious Great Northern Bean Recipes for Every Occasion

Great Northern beans are the unsung heroes of the pantry—versatile, nutritious, and ready to transform into something spectacular with just a little creativity. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, craving some hearty comfort food, or looking for seasonal dishes to celebrate the flavors of the moment, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 20 delicious recipes that prove these humble beans can star in any meal!

Great Northern Bean Soup with Ham

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean Soup with Ham, a hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed and picked over
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 pound ham, diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed Great Northern beans and 6 cups chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until beans are tender.
4. Once the beans are tender, add the diced ham, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat the ham through.
5. Remove the bay leaf and stir in 2 tablespoons fresh parsley before serving.

The slow simmering of the beans with ham creates a rich, flavorful broth that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a Parmesan rind to the pot while the beans simmer.

Vegetarian Great Northern Bean Chili

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Vegetarian Great Northern Bean Chili, a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The smoky depth from the paprika and the freshness of the cilantro make this chili a standout, offering a perfect balance of flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers.

Great Northern Bean and Kale Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Great Northern Bean and Kale Stew, a comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the Great Northern beans and kale, stirring to combine.
4. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

The lemon juice adds a bright finish to this stew, balancing the earthiness of the kale and beans perfectly.

Tip: For a thicker stew, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.

Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans with Bacon

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of slow-cooked Great Northern beans, especially when they’re infused with the smoky goodness of bacon. This recipe is a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed and picked over
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to a slow cooker. Add the rinsed beans, chicken broth, water, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beans are tender.
5. Once the beans are cooked, stir in the reserved bacon. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the slow melding of flavors, with the bacon adding a depth that’s hard to resist. It’s a rustic, satisfying meal that proves simplicity often yields the most memorable dishes.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try stirring in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of smoked paprika before serving.

Great Northern Bean Hummus

Dive into the creamy, nutty flavors of this Great Northern Bean Hummus, a delightful twist on the classic that’s perfect for your next snack or appetizer spread.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2-3 tbsp water (as needed for consistency)
• Paprika and chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the Great Northern beans, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. Process until smooth.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is creamy.
3. If the hummus is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and chopped parsley.

This hummus stands out with its smooth texture and the subtle, nutty flavor of Great Northern beans, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional chickpea hummus.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the hummus.

Great Northern Bean and Sausage Casserole

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Great Northern Bean and Sausage Casserole, a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced green bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, onions, and green bell peppers, cooking until the vegetables are soft and the sausage is lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly thickened.

The smoky sausage and creamy beans create a rich flavor profile that’s both satisfying and easy to achieve. This casserole is a one-dish wonder that brings everyone to the table.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking.

Great Northern Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Great Northern Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for picnics or a light lunch. It’s bursting with flavors and comes together in just minutes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the Great Northern beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

The bright lemon vinaigrette and crisp vegetables give this bean salad a delightful freshness that’s hard to resist. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that elevates any meal.

Tip: For an extra crunch, add some toasted almonds or walnuts right before serving.

Great Northern Bean and Spinach Curry

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean and Spinach Curry, a hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup coconut milk

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Fold in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for another 5 minutes until the curry is slightly thickened.

The creamy coconut milk balances the earthy spinach and beans, creating a curry that’s rich in texture and depth of flavor.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.

Great Northern Bean Burgers

Looking for a hearty, plant-based burger that doesn’t skimp on flavor? These Great Northern Bean Burgers are packed with protein and a delightful crunch, making them a hit for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mash the Great Northern beans with a fork until mostly smooth but some chunks remain.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, onion, beaten egg, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

The secret to these burgers’ irresistible texture? The combination of mashed and whole beans creates a perfect balance between creamy and crunchy.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, serve these burgers with a slice of avocado and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

Great Northern Bean and Tomato Bake

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Great Northern Bean and Tomato Bake, a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Drain the soaked beans and set aside.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the drained beans to the skillet, stirring to combine. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup fresh parsley before serving.

The slow baking melds the flavors beautifully, creating a dish where the beans are perfectly tender and the tomato sauce rich and aromatic.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, top with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.

Great Northern Bean and Chicken Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Great Northern Bean and Chicken Stew, a comforting dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cans (15.5 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Return the chicken to the pot. Add the chicken broth, water, Great Northern beans, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving. The stew is ready when the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

The creamy texture of the Great Northern beans pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a stew that’s both satisfying and subtly rich.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try stirring in a splash of white wine when you add the broth.

Great Northern Bean and Cornbread Casserole

This Great Northern Bean and Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines creamy beans with a golden, buttery cornbread topping for the ultimate weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, green bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and melted butter until just combined.
4. Pour the cornbread batter over the bean mixture, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The magic of this casserole lies in the contrast between the savory, spiced beans and the sweet, crumbly cornbread—a match made in comfort food heaven.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the bean mixture before baking.

Great Northern Bean and Vegetable Stir Fry

Whip up this hearty Great Northern Bean and Vegetable Stir Fry for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor and color.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups cooked Great Northern beans
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, thinly sliced, and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add 1 red bell pepper, sliced, and 1 cup sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
4. Mix in 2 cups cooked Great Northern beans, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoky cumin and paprika give this stir fry a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the Great Northern beans.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top before serving.

Great Northern Bean and Rice Pilaf

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean and Rice Pilaf, a hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the rice, coating it with the oil and onion mixture, and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the soaked Great Northern beans, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Fluff the pilaf with a fork to separate the grains.

The combination of creamy Great Northern beans and fluffy rice creates a satisfying texture, while the thyme and bay leaf add a subtle, aromatic depth. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice in the olive oil until lightly golden before adding the broth and beans.

Great Northern Bean and Sweet Potato Curry

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean and Sweet Potato Curry, a dish that marries creamy beans with the natural sweetness of potatoes in a fragrant spice blend.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sweet potato, Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this curry lies in the harmony of spices and the creamy texture of the beans, making it a hearty yet healthy meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices.

Great Northern Bean and Avocado Wrap

Looking for a quick, nutritious lunch that packs a punch of flavor? This Great Northern Bean and Avocado Wrap is your answer, combining creamy avocado with hearty beans for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup mixed greens

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed avocado, Great Northern beans, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the mixed greens evenly among the tortillas, spreading them out in the center.
3. Spoon the bean and avocado mixture over the greens on each tortilla, dividing it equally.
4. Fold the sides of the tortillas in, then roll them up tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling.
5. Cut each wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately, or wrap in parchment paper for an easy grab-and-go option.

The creamy texture of the avocado paired with the earthy beans and fresh cilantro creates a wrap that’s both refreshing and filling. Perfect for those days when you need a quick yet wholesome meal.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder to the bean mixture before assembling.

Great Northern Bean and Mushroom Risotto

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean and Mushroom Risotto, a creamy dish that’s packed with earthy flavors and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Great Northern beans, soaked overnight
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Drain the soaked Great Northern beans and boil in fresh water for 45 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until softened.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it with the oil and vegetables, for about 1 minute.
5. Pour in 1/2 cup white wine, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until each addition is nearly absorbed before adding the next, about 20 minutes total.
7. Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the cooked Great Northern beans, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and 2 tbsp fresh parsley.

The combination of creamy risotto with the hearty texture of Great Northern beans and the umami richness of mushrooms makes this dish a standout. The white wine adds a subtle acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try stirring in a teaspoon of truffle oil before serving.

Great Northern Bean and Pumpkin Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Great Northern Bean and Pumpkin Soup, a creamy blend that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 can pumpkin puree, and the Great Northern beans. Stir to combine.
3. Season with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and heat through for another 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoked paprika adds a subtle depth to the soup, making it a standout dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Tip: For an extra smooth soup, blend half of it before adding the cream.

Great Northern Bean and Quinoa Salad

Looking for a protein-packed salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? This Great Northern Bean and Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, Great Northern beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The crunch of fresh veggies paired with the creamy beans and fluffy quinoa makes this salad a textural delight. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cumin or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Great Northern Bean and Lentil Dal

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Great Northern Bean and Lentil Dal, a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight
• 1 cup dried green lentils
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Drain the soaked Great Northern beans and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground turmeric, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Great Northern beans, lentils, and 4 cups vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beans and lentils are tender.
5. Stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

The magic of this dal lies in the creamy texture of the Great Northern beans paired with the earthy lentils, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with protein.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin and turmeric in a dry pan before adding them to the dish.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 Delicious Great Northern Bean Recipes inspires your next meal! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!