As the days get cooler, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to soothe your soul. And when it comes to hearty and delicious options, navy beans are always a great choice! These versatile legumes can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to casseroles and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend brunch option, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 hearty navy bean recipes.
From classic comfort foods like slow cooker navy bean soup with ham, to more adventurous options like Cajun-spiced navy beans with Andouille, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm!
Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup with Ham
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner, this slow cooker recipe combines navy beans, smoked ham, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound diced smoked ham (such as Black Forest)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Add the soaked navy beans, diced ham, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water, making sure all ingredients are covered.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Garlicky Navy Beans with Spinach and Tomatoes
This hearty, one-pot dish is a twist on traditional navy beans, with the added flavor boost of garlic, spinach, and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes
Creamy Navy Bean and Bacon Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender navy beans, and creamy potatoes. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, chicken broth, diced potatoes, and cooked bacon back to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Navy Bean Chili with Ground Turkey
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the richness of ground turkey with the warmth of spices and the comfort of navy beans. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, navy beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Navy Bean Salad with Feta
This hearty salad combines the creamy richness of navy beans with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flavorful Mediterranean package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked navy beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked navy beans, chopped red bell pepper, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Stir in chopped fresh parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked navy beans)
Smoky Navy Bean and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of smoky sausage and creamy navy beans, simmered to perfection in a rich and flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Herbed Navy Bean and Vegetable Casserole
Herbed Navy Bean and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of navy beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked navy beans and enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and red bell pepper in olive oil until tender.
4. Add the cooked navy beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Classic Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup
Classic Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for cold winter days or as a comforting meal any time of the year. With its rich flavor and tender beans, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds ham hock, smoked or cured
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the soaked navy beans and enough cold water to cover them by at least 2 inches.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ham hock, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer soup for an additional 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Remove ham hock from the pot and shred or chop meat before returning it to the soup.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lemon Garlic Navy Beans with Kale
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of navy beans with the tangy brightness of lemon and the earthiness of kale. It’s a perfect side dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped kale (curly or lacinato work well)
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine navy beans and enough water to cover by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add kale to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain cooked navy beans and add them to the kale mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour total (45 minutes for beans, 15 minutes for kale mixture)
Tomato Basil Navy Bean Pasta
A flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of navy beans.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups cooked navy beans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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 olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add canned tomatoes, cooked navy beans, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer mixture for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together and sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato-basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Navy Beans with Cornbread
A classic comfort food combination that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies! This recipe brings together tender navy beans, flavorful spices, and a crumbly cornbread crust for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the Navy Beans:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine navy beans, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
3. Prepare cornbread by whisking together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake cornbread for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time:
– Navy Beans: 6-8 hours or overnight
– Cornbread: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Navy Beans
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Navy Beans: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of navy beans with the pungency of roasted garlic and the herbaceousness of rosemary, creating a deliciously complex side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine navy beans, roasted garlic, and chopped rosemary.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the bean mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Navy Bean and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry combines the creamy richness of navy beans with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 ounces) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with a pinch of salt and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and roasted sweet potatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add navy beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired). Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup with Navy Beans
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, nutrient-rich kale, and savory navy beans. A simple and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the navy beans, cannellini beans, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the chopped kale and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Navy Bean Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines sweet navy beans with savory bacon and a hint of smokiness from the bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (15 ounces) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Wrap each bacon piece around a bean mixture, leaving a small portion of bacon at one end to secure it to the pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean-bacon mixture, standing upright in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Navy Bean and Chicken Sausage Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines tender chicken sausage with creamy navy beans, onions, and bell peppers for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the navy beans, thyme, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Navy Beans with Andouille
This hearty recipe combines the classic comfort of navy beans with the bold flavors of Cajun spice and smoky Andouille sausage. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Southern-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, Cajun seasoning blend, bay leaf, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Navy Bean Hummus with Roasted Red Pepper
This creamy and flavorful dip combines the comforting warmth of navy beans with the sweet and smoky richness of roasted red peppers. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked navy beans
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 roasted red pepper (see note)
– 2 tablespoons water
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the navy beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the navy beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the roasted red pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked red pepper to the blender or food processor with the bean mixture. Blend until well combined.
5. Add the water and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with paprika, parsley, or other herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cheesy Navy Bean and Broccoli Bake
A comforting, flavorful casserole that combines the richness of navy beans with the sweetness of broccoli and the creaminess of cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the broccoli and cook until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the navy beans, cooked broccoli mixture, and cheddar cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour in the bean mixture and dot with additional butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Navy Bean and Mushroom Ragout
This hearty, comforting dish is a perfect blend of protein-rich navy beans and earthy mushrooms. The slow-cooked sauce simmers with rich flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine navy beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
2. Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked navy beans and mushroom mixture. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Get cozy on a chilly night with these 20 delicious navy bean recipes! From hearty soups to flavorful chowders, casseroles, and more, these dishes are sure to warm your belly and your heart. Try Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup with Ham for a comforting classic, or spice things up with Spicy Navy Bean Chili with Ground Turkey. For something lighter, Mediterranean Navy Bean Salad with Feta is the perfect choice. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or smoky, these navy bean recipes have got you covered!