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Cheesy Spicy Black Bean Skillet Recipe

4.8 from 54 reviews

A comforting and flavorful Cheesy Spicy Black Bean Skillet that combines smoky spices, tangy enchilada sauce, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. This easy one-pan dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian meal, finished off with a fresh squeeze of lime for brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

Skillet Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

Spices & Flavorings

  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz red enchilada sauce (such as Frontera Red Chile Enchilada Sauce)
  • 3 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (such as Cabot)

Garnish

  • 4 lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the skillet dish.
  2. Sauté onions: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become softened and translucent.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without browning.
  4. Add spices and tomato paste: Mix in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors well.
  5. Add beans and seasoning: Add the drained black beans, salt, black pepper, and enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  6. Add cheese and bake: Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden on top.
  7. Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and serve immediately, accompanied by lime wedges to squeeze over the dish for a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Use an oven-safe skillet to ensure you can transfer it directly from stovetop to oven without hassle.
  • You can substitute the red enchilada sauce with your favorite brand or homemade enchilada sauce for different flavor profiles.
  • The reduced fat sharp cheddar keeps the dish lighter but still flavorful; feel free to swap for full-fat if preferred.
  • Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit for a milder version.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad.

Keywords: Cheesy black beans, spicy black bean skillet, enchilada sauce recipe, vegetarian skillet, easy Mexican dinner