I’ve been making white chili beans for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite recipes. This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
The rich, slightly spicy flavor of the chili is balanced by the creamy texture of the beans, and the whole thing is infused with the deep, earthy taste of cumin. I love that this recipe is so easy to make – just brown some ground beef and onions, then add in a can of diced tomatoes and some beans.
It’s a great way to get everyone involved in cooking, too – my kids love helping me stir the pot and adding their own favorite toppings. We always serve it with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side, which helps soak up all that delicious broth.
I’ve experimented with different types of chili peppers over the years, but I always come back to using Anaheim peppers for this recipe. They have a mild heat that adds depth without overpowering the other flavors, and they’re relatively easy to find in most supermarkets.
If you can’t find Anaheim peppers, you can substitute in some other mild pepper like bell or Poblano. This recipe is also great because it’s so versatile – we like to serve it as a main course, but it’s also fantastic as a dip or a topping for tacos or baked potatoes.
One of the best things about white chili beans is how well they freeze. Just portion out individual servings into freezer bags or containers, and you can enjoy them all year round.
White Chili Beans with Ground Turkey
4.7 from 817 votes
A comforting and flavorful white chili recipe using ground turkey and white beans. Perfect for a hearty meal on a cold day.
1In a large pot over medium heat, add ground turkey.
2Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3Drain excess fat.
4Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot.
5Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
6Stir in white beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
7Bring to a boil.
8Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9The chili is ready when the flavors are well combined and the beans are tender.
10Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
11Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips: You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a healthier option.
This white chili beans recipe is always a hit with my family – we love serving it at gatherings and events because it’s so easy to make in big batches.
The best part is that it freezes beautifully, so we can enjoy it all year round even when we’re short on time.
Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans and lean ground beef, making it a great choice for families looking for healthy meal options.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About White Chili Beans with Ground Turkey
What type of chili peppers should I use?
I prefer to use Anaheim peppers for their mild heat and deep flavor. If you can’t find Anaheim peppers, you can substitute in some other mild pepper like bell or Poblano.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How do I store leftovers?
You can store leftover white chili beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen portions by microwaving them until hot and steaming.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting out the ground beef for some extra beans or tofu. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
What’s the best way to serve this recipe?
We like to serve white chili beans over crusty bread or with some cornbread on the side. You can also top it with shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream for extra flavor.
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