Delicious and Creamy White Bean Chili Recipe
This zesty white bean chili is one of my favorite game day recipes! Creamy, hearty, and easy to make, it’s also a perfect dinner for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This White Bean Chili Recipe
- Super Creamy Without Any Cream: Blending some of the beans offers a rich, velvety texture that requires no dairy!
- Easy to Prepare: Made with pantry staples like canned beans, spices, and vegetable broth.
- Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day—perfect for game day or quick lunches.
White Bean Chili Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White beans (Cannellini, Great Northern, or Navy) | 4½ cups (3 cans, drained and rinsed) |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Medium yellow onion | 1, chopped |
| Poblano pepper | 1, stemmed, seeded, and diced |
| Diced green chiles | 1 (4-ounce) can |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups, divided |
| Ground cumin | 1½ teaspoons |
| Ground coriander | ½ teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh lime juice | 2 tablespoons (plus wedges for serving) |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
How to Make White Bean Chili
This creamy white bean chili is easy to prepare!
- Blend Half the Beans: In a blender, combine half of the white beans (about 2¼ cups) with ¾ cup of broth and blend until smooth. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, poblano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in green chiles, garlic, and spices; cook for 30 seconds.
- Add Liquid: Add the remaining broth and the rest of the beans. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Incorporate Puree: Mix in the blended bean puree and simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
- Add Final Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers
- Diced avocado
- Sliced green onions
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips
For a complete meal, pair with homemade cornbread.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of beans?
- Absolutely! You can substitute with any white beans like Great Northern or navy beans.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- The spice level can be adjusted by the type and quantity of peppers used. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of poblano or skip the jalapeños.
- Can I make this chili ahead of time?
- Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.