Creamy White Bean Turkey Chili: 7 Reasons to Love It

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Creamy White Bean Turkey has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months. This flavorful dish combines lean ground turkey, cannellini beans, and a medley of spices that creates a creamy texture without the use of tomatoes. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something comforting yet healthy. The dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Let’s dive in and see how to prepare this delightful chili!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Bean Turkey

This creamy white bean turkey recipe has several benefits that make it a must-try:

It’s a healthy option, boasting a low-fat profile with a rich taste.
This dish is packed with protein, perfect for muscle repair and growth.
The creamy texture is achieved without heavy cream, making it lighter.
You can customize spice levels, making it suitable for all palates.
It’s a one-pot meal, simplifying cleanup.
This recipe can be made in advance, perfect for meal prepping.
It fits well into a low-carb diet while being filling.
Ideal for leftovers, it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients for Creamy White Bean Turkey

Gather these items:

Olive oil spray
2 small onions, chopped
5 garlic cloves, chopped
3 pounds 93% lean ground turkey
1 (4.5 ounce) can diced green chilies
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 tablespoon cumin
1/2 tablespoon oregano
2 teaspoons chili powder (to your taste)
1/2 to 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (to your taste)
1 bay leaf
4 (15.5 ounce) cans cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
Diced avocado
Cilantro
Sliced jalapeno
Chopped scallions
Additional Greek yogurt or sour cream for serving

How to Make Creamy White Bean Turkey Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium flame. When hot, spray with olive oil. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until soft, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the turkey is white and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the diced green chilies, kosher salt, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
Step 4: Pour 1 can of the rinsed beans and 1 cup of chicken broth into a blender and blend until smooth. Add this bean puree back into the pot along with the remaining beans, the remaining broth, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Cover the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld together.
Step 6: Stir in the reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Step 7: Ladle chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, cilantro, sliced jalapenos, chopped scallions, and extra sour cream or Greek yogurt as desired.
Step 8: Follow steps 1 to 5, reducing the broth to 1 1/2 cups. Transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
Step 9: Use an 8-quart Instant Pot or halve the recipe. Reduce broth to 1 1/2 cups. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy White Bean Turkey

Keep these in mind:

Serve with your favorite garnishes like cheese and avocado.
Adjust spice levels to your preference.
For a thicker consistency, blend more beans.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey with other lean meats like chicken or beef.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy White Bean Turkey

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Warm crusty bread for dipping.
A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Over rice for a more hearty meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy White Bean Turkey

To store, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in individual servings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy White Bean Turkey

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy White Bean Turkey?

The secret lies in the balance of spices and the creaminess achieved from blending the beans. This gives the chili a rich texture without needing heavy cream.

Can I make Creamy White Bean Turkey ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy White Bean Turkey?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the turkey is fully cooked and don’t skip on sautéing the onions and garlic until they are fragrant and soft. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations of Creamy White Bean Turkey You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

White Bean Turkey Stew: Add more broth and vegetables for a hearty stew.
Creamy Turkey and White Bean Soup: Blend the mixture for a soupier version.
One-Pot Creamy White Bean Turkey Meal: Cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.
Healthy Creamy White Bean Turkey Dish: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

For more delicious recipes, check out this heartwarming Tuscan white bean recipe or this creamy sausage potato chowder. You might also enjoy these irresistible Thai red curry kabobs for a flavorful twist!