If you're looking to bulk up dinner, reach for a can of beans. These recipes use all of your favorites, including black beans, kidney beans, navy beans and more.
45 Healthy Recipes With Beans
1/45
Ranch-Style Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This ranch-style beans recipe is served at all of our barbecues. It seems most people who live here like spicy, flavorful food, and this fits the bill just right. —Wilma Ruth James, Ranger, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 226 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 345mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 10g fiber), 14g protein.
2/45
Cool Beans Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This protein-filled dish could be served as a colorful side dish or a meatless entree. When you make it, double the recipe—because it will be gone in a flash! The basmati rice adds flavor and texture, and the dressing gives it a bit of a tang. —Janelle Lee, Appleton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 440 calories, 19g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 659mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 8g fiber), 12g protein.
3/45
Turkey Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
I've taken my mother's healthy turkey chili recipe and made it thicker and more robust. It's a favorite, especially in fall and winter. —Celesta Zanger, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 200 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 535mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
4/45
Chickpea Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
Alternate your vegetarian taco nights with a chickpea version. The legumes are coated in a spicy seasoning blend and then baked for a crunchy, flavorful bite that’s easy to build onto. —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 425 calories, 18g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 615mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 14g fiber), 12g protein.
5/45
White Bean Hummus
From the Recipe Creator:
My version of hummus features a delightful nuttiness from tahini, a peanut butter-like paste made from ground sesame seeds. The beans pack a lot of protein so it's a healthy snack for kids. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 78 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
6/45
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
When I'm invited to a potluck, I easily double or triple this healthy Moroccan chickpea stew to treat the crowd to an exotic dish of enticing, bold flavors. —Heather Demeritte, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 217 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 9g fiber), 7g protein.
7/45
Vegan Meatballs
Nutrition Facts:
About 4 meatballs: 186 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 331mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 lean meat.
8/45
Penne with Veggies and Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Chock-full of zucchini, tomatoes, sweet pepper and carrots, this hearty pasta dish puts your garden harvest to good use. For variety, I sometimes add one-half cup of salsa or one-half cup of thickened teriyaki sauce. —Vickie Spoerle, Indianapolis, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 300 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 643mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 14g protein.
9/45
Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
This chickpea salad is super flavorful and contains less fat and cholesterol than chicken salad. These make delightful picnic sandwiches. —Deanna Wolfe, Madison, South Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 295 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
10/45
Southwest Vegetarian Bake
From the Recipe Creator:
This veggie-packed casserole hits the spot on chilly nights. It's a healthy canned vegetable recipe that's perfect any time I have a taste for Mexican food with all the fixings. —Patricia Gale, Monticello, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 285 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 759mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
11/45
Ham and Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I had never made or eaten this dish before meeting my husband here in Kentucky. Now I make it at least once a week. I serve it with some homemade sweet cornbread. Delicious! —Christine Duffy, Sturgis, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 195 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 505mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 10g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
12/45
Pronto Vegetarian Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
In the summer I love to serve these peppers with salad and a roll. At the end of summer, I freeze them for cold months when produce costs are high. For a hot meal on a cold day, I love to serve them with a side of warm pasta tossed in olive oil. —Renee Hollobaugh, Altoona, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 stuffed pepper halves: 341 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 556mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 11g fiber), 19g protein.
13/45
Pressure-Cooker Black Bean Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Life can get really crazy with young children, but I never want to compromise when it comes to cooking. This recipe is healthy and so easy thanks to my one-pot cooker! —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 125 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 517mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
14/45
Lima Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was growing up on Cyprus, my mother would often make this side dish to have with roast lamb. Although I hated lima beans when I was a kid (who didn't?), I love them now. They always remind me of home. —Paris Paraskeva, San Francisco, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 326 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 209mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 16g fiber), 16g protein.
15/45
Freezer Burritos
From the Recipe Creator:
I love burritos, but the frozen ones are high in salt and chemicals. So I created these. They're wonderful to have on hand for quick dinners or late-night snacks—I've even had them for breakfast! —Laura Winemiller, Delta, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 345 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 677mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
16/45
Lentil White Bean Pilaf
From the Recipe Creator:
Vegetarians will be happy to see this hearty meatless grain pilaf on the buffet table. I like to make it when I have extra cooked lentils, barley, quinoa and rice. My friends and family swear it's better than its meaty counterpart! —Juli Meyers, Hinesville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 259 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 11g fiber), 11g protein.
17/45
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
My favorite kitchen appliance is the slow cooker, and I use mine more than anyone else I know. It does a great job with this good-for-you dish. —Michelle Gurnsey, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 317 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
18/45
Hearty Vegetarian Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
Rich and flavorful, this chili is absolutely packed with fun veggies like mushrooms, beans and sun-dried tomatoes. It's so filling, you'll win over any meat lover. —Pam Ivbuls, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 238 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 12g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
19/45
Tuscan Portobello Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a healthy one-skillet meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, yet elegant enough for company. I often take this stew to my school’s potlucks, where it is devoured by teachers and students alike. —Jane Siemon, Viroqua, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 309 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 672mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 13g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat, 1 lean meat.
20/45
Chunky Vegetarian Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
This robust chili teams rice, kidney and pinto beans, and a variety of colorful vegetables for a hearty meatless meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 196 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 424mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch.
21/45
Beef and Black Bean Spaghetti Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been working on developing healthier recipes that still taste fabulous—and keep me satisfied. This squash tossed with beef, beans and kale has so much flavor it's easy to forget it's good for you! —Charlotte Cravins, Opelousas, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 312 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 283mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
22/45
Chickpea and Potato Curry
From the Recipe Creator:
I make chana masala, the classic Indian chickpea curry, in my slow cooker. First browning the onion, ginger and garlic really makes the sauce amazing. —Anjana Devasahayam, San Antonio, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups chickpea mixture: 240 calories, 6g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 767mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 8g protein.
23/45
Turkey Pinto Bean Salad with Southern Molasses Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad is a welcome alternative to the usual post-Thanksgiving fare. It's a tasty main dish loaded with good-for-you protein. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 379 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 7g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
24/45
Vegetarian Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Mexican food but was looking for a healthier option to share. My family devours these tasty tacos whenever I make them. —Amanda Petrucelli, Plymouth, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 taco (calculated without optional toppings): 413 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 774mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 16g fiber), 17g protein.
25/45
Guilt-Free Chicken Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
This chili is a keeper. Make it on Sunday and you get lunch for the rest of the week, too. —Amy Chalmers, Poughkeepsie, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 chili with 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (calculated without optional toppings): 326 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 411mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 10g fiber), 21g protein.
26/45
Bow Tie & Spinach Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
With pasta salad, it’s easy to change up ingredients. We like to add grilled chicken and pine nuts, and sometimes we substitute black beans for the garbanzo beans. —Julie Kirkpatrick, Billings, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
2 cups: 318 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
27/45
Tuna and White Bean Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a fabulous way to dress up ordinary tuna salad. This easy recipe makes a quick dinner or lunch at the office, and it's good for you. —Heather Senger, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 wraps: 279 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 7g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
28/45
Quinoa and Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Some vegan quinoa recipes are boring, but this one definitely isn't. My daughter’s college asked parents for the best quinoa recipes to use in the dining halls. This healthy quinoa recipe fits the bill. —Lindsay McSweeney, Winchester, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 375 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 668mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
29/45
Confetti Kielbasa Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's one of my husband's favorite dishes. When it's in season, substitute fresh corn for frozen. Add a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. —Sheila Gomez, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 347 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 692mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 7g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 2 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
30/45
Cassoulet for Today
From the Recipe Creator:
French cassoulet is traditionally cooked for hours. This version of the rustic dish offers the same homey taste in less time. It’s easy on the wallet too. —Virginia Anthony, Jacksonville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 394 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 736mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
31/45
Black Beans and Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
This black bean pasta was something I created as a teenager, back when I was a vegetarian. Now that my daughter doesn't eat meat, she asks for this dinner several times a week. —Ashlynn Azar, Beaverton, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 255 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
32/45
Coconut-Ginger Chickpeas & Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my go-to quick dish. When you add tomatoes, you can also toss in some chopped green peppers (jalapenos, if you like heat) to make it even more colorful. —Mala Udayamurthy, San Jose, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup chickpea mixture with 3/4 cup rice: 402 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 590mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 10g fiber), 11g protein.
33/45
Mediterranean Spinach & Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire. I like this skillet meal served warm or cold. —Becky Cuba, Spotsylvania, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 187 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 650mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
34/45
Roasted Curried Chickpeas and Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
When there’s not much time to cook, try roasting potatoes and cauliflower with chickpeas for a warm-you-up dinner. It's a filling meal on its own, but you can add chicken or tofu to the sheet pan if you'd like. —Pam Correll, Brockport, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 339 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 605mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
35/45
White Bean Soup with Escarole
From the Recipe Creator:
Pantry staples make this healthy soup oh, so simple to prepare. When I can't find escarole, I use fresh spinach. Just add to the soup pot moments before serving. —Gina Samokar, North Haven, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup soup with 1-1/2 teaspoons cheese: 174 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 572mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 8g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
36/45
Cornbread-Topped Frijoles
From the Recipe Creator:
My family often requests this economical slow-cooker favorite. It's loaded with fresh southwestern flavors. One batch makes eight servings—but they never last long at our house! —Suzanne Caldwell, Artesia, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 367 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 9g fiber), 14g protein.
37/45
Pumpkin Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
My family is crazy about this slow cooker chili because it uses ingredients you don't usually find in chili. Believe it or not, I discovered that pumpkin is what makes the dish so special. Cook up a big batch and freeze some for later; it tastes even better reheated. —Deborah Vliet, Holland, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 192 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 658mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
38/45
Mediterranean Tuna Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
In spite of a long list of ingredients, this tuna salad is very quick to prepare. You'll love the fresh flavors. —Renee Nash, Snoqualmie, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 282 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 682mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
39/45
Rosemary Chicken with Spinach & Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
With two young boys constantly on-the-go, I’m always looking for ways to simplify meals. This recipe uses just one skillet, making it a cinch to prepare dinner for a hungry family in half an hour. —Sara Richardson, Littleton, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3/4 cup sauce: 348 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 729mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 41g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 fat.
40/45
Quick Italian Veggie Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
When you don’t know what to serve, Italian flavors are a good starting point. We combine cannellini and garbanzo beans for this snappy rice dish. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 342 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 660mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 11g fiber), 16g protein.
41/45
Mediterranean Chickpeas
From the Recipe Creator:
Add this to your meatless Monday lineup. It's great with feta cheese on top. —Elaine Ober, Brookline, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup chickpea mixture with 2/3 cup couscous: 340 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 677mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein.
42/45
Salmon with Spinach & White Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband, Oscar, is a Southerner at heart. This salmon with garlicky beans and spinach won him over at first bite. —Mary Ellen Hofstetter, Brentwood, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 1/2 cup spinach mixture : 317 calories, 17g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 577mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 5g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
43/45
Chili-Rubbed Steak with Black Bean Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Busy weeknights don't stop my husband from firing up the grill. This meal-in-one comes together fast. Try it with chimichurri and cotija cheese. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef with 3/4 cup salad: 367 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 762mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
44/45
Black Bean-Sweet Potato Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
My fiancé loves sweet potatoes. By adding black beans, I came up with a nutritionally complete main dish. Its bright orange and black color makes it fun for Halloween. —April Strevell, Red Bank, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup black bean mixture with 1/2 cup couscous : 294 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 727mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 10g fiber), 12g protein.
45/45
Chicken, Rice and Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, including chicken, black beans and rice, so it’s quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight. —Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/2 cup cooked rice: 400 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 670mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 32g protein.
