Cheesy Spicy Black Bean Skillet Recipe
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.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the skillet dish.
- 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.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without browning.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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