Are you looking for a flavorful way to incorporate more beans into your diet? Look no further! Beans are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. They’re also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for everything from snacks to meals. From classic chili recipes to unique international dishes, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious bean recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, you’ll discover a variety of tasty and easy-to-make bean-based dishes, including tacos, soups, stir-fries, casseroles, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Black Bean Tacos
Add a kick to your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of black beans with the heat of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and chipotle pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the bean mixture onto a warmed tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with creamy cannellini beans, aromatic garlic, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlicky Green Bean Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry that combines the sweetness of green beans with the pungency of garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and ginger. Pour the mixture over the green beans and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Baked Beans with Bacon
Elevate your BBQ game with these smoky, sweet, and savory baked beans infused with the rich flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Stir well to combine, then add the cooked bacon back into the pot.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Refried Bean Quesadillas
These quesadillas combine the comfort of refried beans with the crispy, cheesy goodness of a traditional tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can refried beans
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread one half of each tortilla with refried beans, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the beans.
4. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and cilantro (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Three-Bean Chili
This hearty, flavorful chili is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, with kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans coming together in a rich, slightly spicy broth. It’s a great meal to warm up on a chilly day or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (5 minutes).
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemony Chickpea Salad
This vibrant salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, red onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Add garlic and stir to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Black Bean Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies are a game-changer, incorporating black beans to create a unique flavor profile. Perfect for those looking for a healthier dessert option or simply wanting to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold chocolate into the brownie mixture until well combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pinto Bean Enchiladas
Elevate your Mexican-inspired meal game with this recipe featuring creamy pinto beans wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich, spicy enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add pinto beans and cook until heated through.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning bean mixture onto each tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
8. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese and your choice of additional toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mediterranean Bean Dip
This vibrant dip is a flavorful representation of the Mediterranean region’s culinary charm. Made with garbanzo beans, herbs, and spices, it’s perfect for dipping pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine garbanzo beans, parsley, cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
4. Continue blending until well combined and creamy.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Bean and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the warmth of red beans with the simplicity of cooked rice, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until tender.
4. Stir in red beans, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice and bean mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Cannellini Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of creamy cannellini beans, aromatic herbs, and rich flavors. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
BBQ Baked Beans
Get ready for a classic summer side dish that’s perfect for picnics and backyard barbecues! These sweet and smoky baked beans are infused with the rich flavors of barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine the soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the bacon pieces until evenly distributed.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Bean and Cheese Burritos
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with this classic recipe that combines the comfort of beans and cheese with the convenience of a burrito. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with beans, cheese (1/2 cup per burrito), and cooked onion mixture.
6. Roll up the burritos tightly and place seam-side down on a plate.
7. Serve immediately, or wrap individually and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the creamy richness of cannellini beans with the earthy goodness of kale, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and chopped kale to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burgers, these vegan black bean patties are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or a potato masher.
3. Add the oats, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
6. Add the patties to the preheated skillet or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans
This classic recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors to create a deliciously addictive side dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 6-8 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Bean and Corn Salsa
This sweet and tangy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With its vibrant colors and delicious combination of textures, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Stir in cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time only)
Lentil and Bean Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils and beans with a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich and slightly spicy flavor profile, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bean and Sausage Cassoulet
This classic French dish combines the flavors of tender beans, savory sausage, and rich broth for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its easy-to-follow instructions and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 Italian sausage links, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the beans according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sausage, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked beans to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 flavorful bean recipes! From spicy tacos to creamy soups, and from savory stews to sweet brownies, there’s something for every occasion. Try making Spicy Black Bean Tacos for a quick weeknight dinner or Smoky Baked Beans with Bacon for a crowd-pleasing BBQ side dish. Or, get creative with Refried Bean Quesadillas or Mediterranean Bean Dip for a unique snack or appetizer. Whatever your taste buds desire, these bean recipes are sure to satisfy!
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