White Bean Chowder Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and downright comforting, this white bean chowder is just the ticket. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender beans, flavorful ham, and just the right amount of veggies to make you feel good about every spoonful.
This is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners, lazy Sunday lunches, or whenever you need a little comfort food in your life. Plus, it’s as simple as it is satisfying—ready in no time and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This White Bean Chowder
This chowder is the perfect balance of rich and hearty without being overly heavy. The beans bring creamy goodness, the ham adds a savory, smoky touch, and the carrots and onions provide just enough sweetness to round everything out. Plus, it’s versatile—you can use canned beans for convenience or start with dried beans if you’ve got the time.
And let’s not forget the ultimate pairing: a slice of warm cornbread to soak up that dreamy broth. You’ll be scraping the bottom of the bowl in no time!
Ingredients for White Bean Chowder
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:
- 6 cans of Great Northern beans (or dried beans, cooked)
- 4 carrots, grated
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1½ cups diced ham
- 1 small carton half-and-half
- Water with chicken bouillon (to taste; enough to cover beans by about 1 inch)
How to Make White Bean Chowder
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and grated carrots, then sauté until softened and fragrant—about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add the Ham
Stir in the diced ham and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Combine the Beans and Broth
Add the Great Northern beans to the pot, along with enough water and chicken bouillon to cover the beans by about 1 inch. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the Creaminess
Pour in the half-and-half, stirring to combine. Let the chowder simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, giving the flavors time to come together. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can cause the half-and-half to separate.
5. Taste and Adjust
Give the chowder a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The chicken bouillon and ham should add plenty of flavor, but a pinch of salt and pepper can go a long way if needed.
Tips for the Best White Bean Chowder
- Dried Beans for Extra Flavor: If you have time, start with dried Great Northern beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender for even more flavor.
- Customize Your Protein: No ham? No problem. Smoked sausage, bacon, or even shredded chicken would work beautifully in this chowder.
- Go Big on Toppings: Add fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to take your bowl to the next level.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This white bean chowder recipe is the perfect mix of creamy, hearty, and oh-so-cozy. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to serve to company. And trust me, when paired with a warm slice of cornbread, it’s the kind of meal that makes everything feel right with the world.
So grab your ingredients, cozy up by the stove, and get ready to ladle out some serious comfort. Just don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds!
