Nutritious and affordable beans are perfect for salads, casseroles, sides and so much more.
40 Easy Recipes With Black Beans
1/40
Rice and Bean Enchiladas
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Mexican food, but I'm always looking for ways to make it healthier. I reworked a dish that I have enjoyed in restaurants to suit my taste and lifestyle. —Christie Ladd, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 enchilada: 298 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 899mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 12g protein.
2/40
Instant Pot Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Instant Pot black beans are the key to a lot of my family's meals, whether for a weekend breakfast or for taco salads and burritos throughout the week. For years, I've tried to find a homemade recipe as creamy and tasty as Mexican restaurant beans. This is that recipe. —Helen Nelander, Boulder Creek, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 203 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 475mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
3/40
Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a taco to make on meatless Monday? These sweet potato tacos should do the trick. Cubed tubers and refried black beans make each taco hearty and flavorful. —Megan Taylor, Greenfield, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 431 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1039mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
4/40
Slow-Cooker Southwest Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish needs just 15 minutes of prep, so you'll be out of the kitchen in no time. The delicious low-fat chicken gets even better with a garnish of reduced-fat sour cream and fresh cilantro. —Brandi Castillo, Santa Maria, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 320 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 873mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 8g fiber), 19g protein.
5/40
Slow-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 the slow cooker! —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 117 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
6/40
Black Bean Burger
From the Recipe Creator:
I always pull out this recipe when craving a black bean burger. I love how simple it is and how easily it can be dressed up with other ingredients! When cooking the patties, I like to place a slice of gouda on the patty for the final minute to get that perfect gooey texture. —Heather Karow, Burnett, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 295 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 866mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 12g protein.
7/40
Cowboy Caviar (Corn and Black Bean Salad)
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful, crunchy black bean and corn salad is chock-full of nutrition that all ages love. Try it with a variety of summer entrees, or as a wholesome salsa! —Krista Frank, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 167 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 244mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
8/40
Enchilada Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
I love this cozy dish because it is ready in 30 minutes and is full of healthy ingredients—it has everything a busy weeknight meal calls for. —Nora Rušhev, Reitnau, Switzerland
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 444 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 1289mg sodium, 84g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 8g fiber), 18g protein.
9/40
Black Beans and Brown Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
Your family will never miss the meat in this hearty, colorful and fresh-tasting main dish. Served over brown rice, it makes a healthy, stick-to-the-ribs dinner. —Sheila Meyer, North Canton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 327 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 614mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 11g fiber), 12g protein.
10/40
Chicken Burrito Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
We love Mexican night at our house, and I love to re-create dishes from our favorite restaurants. This burrito-inspired dish is ready for the table in almost no time! —Krista Marshall, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 403 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
11/40
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.
12/40
Fettuccine with Black Bean Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
When my husband needed to go on a heart-smart diet, I had to come up with new ways to get more vegetables into our daily meals. This meatless spaghetti sauce is a winner; it's especially delicious with spinach fettuccine. —Marianne Neuman, East Troy, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup sauce with 3/4 cup pasta: 350 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 761mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 8g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
13/40
Black Bean and Corn Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
Head to any Mexican restaurant and we guarantee you’ll see this combo on the menu. The bright colors and contrasting textures make black beans and corn fun additions to guacamole. For extra flavor, grill the corn first.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 144 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
14/40
Huevos Rancheros
From the Recipe Creator:
Huevos rancheros is the best breakfast to start your day on the right foot. Crispy corn tortillas and seasoned black beans make the perfect base for fried eggs, avocados, salsa, pico de gallo, and fresh cilantro topping. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 tostada: 244 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 478mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
15/40
Tex-Mex Grain Bowl
From the Recipe Creator:
This Tex-Mex grain bowl is special because it is not only healthy but also delicious. Oatmeal is one of those dishes often eaten sweetened. People rarely think about using it in a savory dish—and they really should! —Athena Russell, Greenville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 345 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein.
16/40
Black Bean Tortilla Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
A cousin gave me this recipe because she knows my family loves southwestern fare. It's one of our favorites. —Sue Briski, Appleton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 243 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
17/40
Black Bean Tart
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful dish was a hit at a get-together I had for friends. I served the tart with sour cream on the side, a green salad and crusty bread. —Ellen Papa, Miami, Florida.
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 346 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 752mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 12g protein.
18/40
Taco Bowls
From the Recipe Creator:
We love this delicious taco-style dish because of its super simple prep. Each serving is so easy to customize to everyone's individual tastes thanks to the toppings. It's become a regular when we're entertaining. —Hope Wasylenki, Gahanna, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 389 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 550mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
19/40
Vegetarian Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
Vegetarian skillet chili screams comfort food to me. This recipe makes me feel warm and fuzzy, and it’s loved by both my vegetarian and non-vegetarian friends. —Casey Hill, London, United Kingdom
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 140 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 8g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
20/40
Black Bean Tortilla Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this entree a while ago and decreased the cheese and increased the herbs called for in the recipe. It’s one of my toddler’s favorite meals. She always smiles when she sees it on the table. —Wendy Kelly, Petersburg, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 353 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 842mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 17g protein.
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 very lean meat, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
21/40
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.
22/40
Black Bean Brownies
From the Recipe Creator:
You’d never guess these rich, velvety chocolate treats contain a can of black beans. Who would have thought black bean brownies would be so amazing? —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1 brownie: 167 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 131mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
23/40
Black Bean Chip & Dip Burgers
From the Recipe Creator:
I finally invented a healthy quinoa burger that wasn't dry and crumbly or really boring. These fit the bill—even my grandkids prefer them over hamburgers. They taste like chips and dip in a burger! —KT Rehrig, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 247 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein.
24/40
Enchilada Casser-Ole!
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves this casserole, so it never lasts too long in our house. Packed with black beans, cheese, tomatoes and southwestern flavor, it's an impressive-looking entree that's as simple as it is delicious. —Marsha Wills, Homosassa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 357 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
25/40
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.
26/40
Slow-Cooked Bean Medley
From the Recipe Creator:
I often change the variety of beans in this classic recipe, using whatever I have on hand to total the five cans called for. The sauce makes any combination delicious! It's a gluten-free side dish that's popular with just about everyone. —Peggy Gwillim, Strasbourg, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 255 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 942mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 7g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
27/40
Brazilian Pork & Black Bean Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
During high school, I spent a year in Brazil and fell in love with the culture and food. One of my favorite dishes was feijoada, a chili/stew served over white rice. I introduced this easy recipe to my family, and it has become one of our favorite comfort foods. —Andrea Romanczyk, Magna, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 531 calories, 33g fat (11g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 1069mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 33g protein.
28/40
White & Black Bean Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a healthy and filling meal that even the kids love! The satisfying chili is great for football games or potluck dinners. —Katti Scott, Manteo, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 252 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 850mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 8g fiber), 24g protein.
29/40
Chorizo & Grits Breakfast Bowls
From the Recipe Creator:
While growing up, I bonded with my dad over chorizo and eggs. My fresh approach combines them with grits and black beans for this chorizo breakfast bowl. You can even add a spoonful of pico de gallo. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 344 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 239mg cholesterol, 636mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 medium-fat meat, 2 starch.
30/40
Black Bean Burrito
From the Recipe Creator:
My neighbor and I discovered these delicious low-fat burritos a few years ago. On nights my husband or I have a meeting, we can have a satisfying supper on the table in minutes. —Angela Studebaker, Goshen, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 395 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
31/40
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.
32/40
Black Bean ‘n’ Corn Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
Black beans partner up with spinach and corn in these easy and satisfying quesadillas from Susan Franklin of Littleton, Colorado. —Susan Franklin, Littleton, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
4 wedges: 358 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 900mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 15g protein.
33/40
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.
34/40
Black Bean Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Black bean soup recipes are among my favorite because they're light and it most of the time don't contain meat. For this recipe, you could add lean beef or chicken for a variation. —Angee Owens, Lufkin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 222 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 779mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein.
35/40
No-Fry Black Bean Chimichangas
From the Recipe Creator:
My chimichangas get lovin’ from the oven so they’re a bit healthier. Black beans and corn make it meatless. And it’s a smart way to use leftover rice. —Kimberly Hammond, Kingwood, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 337 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 602mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
36/40
Black Bean & White Cheddar Frittata
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my favorite comfort foods for breakfast or even a quick dinner. I like to make it with lime salsa. But if you're looking for something with more kick, use hot salsa or add some chipotle pepper. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge (calculated without toppings): 183 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 196mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
37/40
Black Bean Potato au Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
The addition of black beans and vegetables adds hearty protein and fiber to this tasty side dish. For a southwestern twist, add a handful or two of chopped cooked ham or chorizo sausage and replace the peas with 1 cup of frozen, thawed corn. —Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 340 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 1178mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 10g fiber), 15g protein.
38/40
Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
As a vegan, I'm always looking for impressive dishes to share. Sweet potatoes loaded with beans and a touch of peanut butter are one of my mom’s favorites. —Kayla Capper, Ojai, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato with 1/2 cup black bean mixture: 400 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 426mg sodium, 77g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 12g fiber), 11g protein.
39/40
Spicy Bean and Beef Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter helped me come up with this recipe when we wanted a one-dish meal that was different than a casserole. This pie slices nicely and is a fun and filling dish. —Debra Dohy, Massillon, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 931 calories, 56g fat (32g saturated fat), 157mg cholesterol, 1876mg sodium, 73g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 32g protein.
40/40
Pot Roast with Asian Black Bean Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I love stir-fry with black bean sauce. This recipe takes the delicious flavor of black bean sauce and joins it with fork-tender pot roast. —Judy Lawson, Chelsea, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 281 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 602mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
