This Southern Great Northern Beans recipe is a classic side that pairs perfectly with a warm piece of cornbread and a scoop of rice.
We often serve these Southern-style white beans alongside fried fish or chicken, and they complement pork dishes just as well. Their mild, comforting flavor makes them a great match for many main dishes.
What makes this recipe so yummy
- Simple, economical ingredients that deliver big flavor.
- Flexible — swap the pork, adjust seasoning, or add extras to suit your taste.
- High in fiber for a filling, gut-friendly side.
- Pairs beautifully with rice or cornbread for a hearty meal.
Groceries you’ll need: Ingredients
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Southern Great Northern Beans Recipe Instructions
Overview of the steps — detailed directions and measurements are in the recipe card below.
Hint: Stir the beans more often toward the end of cooking to encourage creaminess. Longer cooking and more stirring will break down beans and create a richer, creamier texture.
Recipe variations and substitute ideas
- Smoked Sausage — swap for salt pork for a smoky alternative.
- Smoked Tasso — another flavorful substitute for salt pork.
- Ham Hocks or a ham bone — great for deep, savory flavor.
- Navy or Cannellini Beans — can be used in place of Great Northern beans.
- Bacon — add or substitute for salt pork for more smoky richness.
- Mustard Powder — adds a tangy warmth.
- Cajun Seasoning — use in place of Creole seasoning to up the spice profile.
- Green Onions or Fresh Parsley — stir in at the end for freshness.
- Green Bell Pepper — adds brightness and depth.
- Hot Sauce or Black Pepper — finish to taste for heat and smoky notes.
- Olive Oil — optional for browning meat if desired.
- Ham Shanks or Pork Chops — handy ways to use leftover pork.
- Onion Powder or Extra Garlic — for a flavor boost.
- Vegetable Stock — use instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option (omit pork).
- Liquid Smoke — a little goes a long way to mimic smoked meats.
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Necessary gear: Equipment
A heavy Dutch oven gives the most even heat and makes this recipe easy to manage, but any large heavy pot will work.
More Beans Recipes I think you’ll love
- Southern Baked Beans Recipe
- Slow Cooker Cajun Red Beans and Rice
- Southern Crock Pot Pinto Beans With Sausage (Easy Slow Cooker Recipe)
- Chicken and Lima Beans
How to store leftovers
Allow the beans to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
They freeze well: transfer to a freezer-safe container and keep up to 3 months.
Mel’s kitchen notes
If you prefer most beans whole, remove a cup or two, blend them until smooth, then stir them back into the pot for creaminess while keeping many beans intact. Using a food processor makes quick work of finely dicing the onions and celery.
About The Author
Melanie Cagle
Melanie is a professional food photographer, home cook, and Cajun food enthusiast. Since 2020 she has shared tested recipes and tutorials on this blog.
Her work has appeared on national outlets and she recently competed on Food Network’s “100 Cooks”.
Frequently asked questions: FAQs
They have a mild, versatile flavor and are commonly used in casseroles, soups, stews, and simple sides like this recipe.
Soaking is optional. Soaking overnight shortens the cooking time, but unsoaked beans will cook through with a longer simmer.
If you’ve tried this Southern Great Northern Beans recipe, please leave a comment below to share how it turned out — we love hearing from readers!
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Southern Great Northern Beans Recipe
ANNOUNCEMENT
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Equipment
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Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Great Northern Beans
- 12 Ounces Salted Picnic Pork diced
- 1 Each Sweet Onions diced
- 1 Rib Celery diced
- 4 Cloves Garlic minced
- 2 (48 Ounce) Boxes Chicken Broth
- 2 teaspoons Creole Seasoning
- 2 Each Bay Leaves
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a large Dutch oven.
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Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
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Cover and simmer on low.
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Simmer about 4 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are soft and flavorful.
Notes
Nutrition
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Original Publish Date: October 23, 2023