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Easy Southwest Black Bean Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 38 reviews

This Easy Southwest Black Bean Casserole is a hearty, protein-packed, and fiber-rich dish perfect for a comforting meal in just 35 minutes. Featuring quinoa, black beans, corn, and bold southwestern spices, it’s a flavorful, oven-baked casserole topped with melted cheese, ideal for family dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Quinoa Base

  • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (divided)

Vegetable & Spice Mix

  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 poblano pepper or 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

Main & Toppings

  • 15 ounces (1 can) black beans, rinsed
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or other cheese (divided)
  • Chopped cilantro, for garnish
  • Salsa or pico de gallo, for serving
  • Sour cream, for topping
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa: Combine the quinoa, a pinch of salt, and water in a pot on high heat. Cook according to the package directions, then turn off the heat and set aside once done.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: While quinoa cooks, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the neutral oil, then the chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the finely chopped poblano or jalapeño pepper, chopped tomato, corn kernels, chili powder, ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  4. Combine Beans, Quinoa, and Cheese: Stir in the rinsed black beans, cooked quinoa, and 3/4 cup of shredded cheese into the vegetable mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine, then evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  5. Bake Casserole: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set to 400°F (200°C). Bake until the cheese melts and browns slightly, about 15 minutes. Carefully remove from the oven.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with salsa or pico de gallo, sour cream, and tortilla chips on the side.

Notes

  • You can substitute the poblano pepper with jalapeño for more heat or omit for a milder flavor.
  • Use fresh or frozen corn kernels as available.
  • Ensure your skillet is oven-safe before placing it in the oven to bake.
  • This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap the cheese variety based on your preference.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/easy-southwest-black-bean-casserole-recipe/