Unlock a World of Delicious Bean-Based Culinary Creations
While beans are often associated with musical effects, they are truly magical in the kitchen. Consider this: What ingredient is both budget-friendly, versatile from appetizers to desserts, and packed with essential nutrients like fiber and protein? You guessed it – beans! These superstars are easy to find, adaptable for various dishes, and chances are you already have a stash in your pantry. If not, what are you waiting for? Explore our collection of 81 bean recipes for inspiration and stock up on these nutritious wonders.
One common dilemma with beans is whether to use dried or canned. Here’s the lowdown: Cooking beans from scratch is economical and yields flavorful results, but canned beans are unbeatably convenient. If it’s a choice between canned or no beans at all, the answer is clear. If you opt for cooking your own, follow our tips for optimal results. No matter your preference, most of our recipes accommodate both, so feel free to choose what works best for you.
With your beans ready to go, the culinary possibilities are endless. Need an appetizer or starter? Explore our selection of bean-filled soups such as black bean soup, mulligatawny stew, or pesto rice & bean soup; vibrant salads like cowboy caviar couscous salad, four-bean salad, or farro & white bean salad; or game-day favorites like homemade hummus, chicken enchilada dip, or nachos supreme. Seeking a hearty side dish? Give bacon baked beans, succotash, or Jamaican rice & beans a try to elevate your meals. Beans are a fantastic source of protein and can easily substitute for meat in dishes like vegan meatballs, black bean burgers, chickpea “tuna” salad, or aquafaba chocolate mousse. Yes, beans can even shine in desserts like white bean blondies, mochi, or black bean brownies. Is there anything beans can’t do?
Perhaps cocktails, but we’ve got you covered with our selection of beverages to complement these recipes. Spinach & Artichoke White Bean Skillet
Indulge in our twist on the classic spinach and artichoke dip with a luscious white bean skillet. This pantry-friendly recipe offers a flavorful and affordable vegetarian dinner option, perfect for your weeknight meal rotation.
Vegetarian Chili
This hearty vegetarian chili, packed with three types of beans and robust spices, offers the same comforting satisfaction as traditional beef chili. Customize the heat level with jalapeños to suit your taste.
Baked Feta Chickpeas
Revitalize baked feta with our irresistible baked feta chickpeas. Tossed in a zesty cherry tomato sauce with garlic, this dish is sure to become your new favorite.
Remember, the versatile bean is your ticket to a world of culinary delights. Enjoy exploring new flavors and dishes using this humble yet extraordinary ingredient.
Indulge in protein-packed dinnertime delight with these chickpeas topped with bubbling browned feta. Perfect for weeknight meals, get ready to savor the goodness with the Baked Feta Chickpeas recipe. For a homemade twist, try making herby and savory falafel balls using canned chickpeas. Crispy on the outside and tender and spicy on the inside, they’re a delicious pita filling you can create at home. Elevate canned chickpeas with Indian Butter Chickpeas simmered in a fragrant tomato gravy, offering a vegetarian twist on butter chicken. Dive into the comfort of Creamy Lemon-Garlic Butter Beans, where tender butter beans swim in a luscious lemon-garlic sauce with spinach. Enjoy a hearty meal with Mediterranean White Beans & Greens, a one-skillet dish featuring escarole and cannellini beans in a rich tomato sauce. Whip up a quick and creamy Homemade Hummus by blending chickpeas, tahini, and simple ingredients in a food processor. For a satisfying skillet dinner, try the White Bean & Smoked Sausage Skillet, featuring smothered smoked sausage, kale, and cannellini beans topped with homemade croutons. Sweet, tangy, and savory Baked Beans are an easy one-pot wonder perfect for feeding a crowd. Lastly, indulge in quick and crispy Bean & Cheese Taquitos for a delightful Mexican-inspired snack. Enjoy these flavorful and easy-to-make recipes for a delicious culinary experience at home.
To avoid drenching the taquitos in a pool of oil, lightly brush them instead before baking at 450° for approximately 15 minutes. Check out the Bean & Cheese Taquitos recipe.
In the Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet dish, enjoy a delightful blend of steamed broccoli and chickpeas smothered in a cheesy sauce, creating a hearty one-pan meal that’s sure to win over your family. Find the recipe for this dish that combines broccoli, cheddar, and chickpeas.
Indulge in the robust flavors of Louisiana-Style Red Beans & Rice, where red beans are infused with smoky, porky, spicy, and earthy notes, resulting in a luscious gravy that complements steamed white rice perfectly. Discover the recipe for this Creole classic.
For a festive twist, try the Crispy Sheet-Pan Black Bean Tacos, where crunchy corn tortillas are filled with refried black beans and topped with crispy frico cheese. This dish is a delightful fusion of tacos and quesadillas that will elevate your weeknight meals.
Elevate your pasta game with the Butter Beans Alla Vodka recipe, swapping traditional penne for creamy butter beans in a rich tomato vodka sauce topped with Parmesan cheese.
Savor the flavors of a Chickpea Florentine Flatbread that combines creamy spinach dip, chickpeas, melty cheeses, and creamy white pizza, offering a vegetarian twist on the classic dish.
Explore the diverse influences behind Mulligatawny Soup, a protein-packed lentil and chickpea blend with spicy, creamy, and sour notes complemented by a hint of sweetness. This vegetarian version can easily be adapted to a vegan diet.
Delight in the comfort of a Creamy Tuscan Butter White Bean Skillet, where white beans and spinach are bathed in a luxurious tomato cream sauce, offering a satisfying vegetarian alternative to the classic recipe.
Learn the art of making Refried Pinto Beans, a Mexican staple that requires time, pork fat, and a few tips to achieve the best version of this dish.
Pair any main dish with Jamaican Rice & Peas, a versatile side that complements a wide range of flavors.
Jamaican cuisine is known for its fluffy and moist dishes that have a savory creaminess achieved through the use of aromatic ingredients like garlic, onion, and coconut milk. These flavors perfectly complement traditional Jamaican dishes such as curry chicken and oxtail stew.
For a taste of Jamaican Rice & Peas, check out the recipe.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly one-pan dinner, try the Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet. This dish features butter-toasted chickpeas and seared broccoli tossed in a rich Alfredo-style sauce made with heavy cream, shallots, garlic, and Parmesan, creating a flavorful meal in just 35 minutes.
For a hearty and vegan-friendly option, consider the Coconut Chickpea & Sweet Potato Curry inspired by Indian cuisine. This dish is bursting with flavors reminiscent of chana masala, offering a satisfying and comforting dinner experience.
Looking for a quick brunch option? The Cheesy White Bean Skillet is a simple and delicious recipe that comes together in less than 30 minutes, using ingredients like eggs, canned white beans, and marinara sauce.
For a comforting and easy weeknight meal, try the Pizza Beans Skillet. This dish utilizes pantry staples to create a flavorful one-pan dinner in just 30 minutes.
If you’re craving a classic comfort food, the Classic Chili recipe offers a hearty and versatile option that can be prepared in just 40 minutes.
Another quick and flavorful recipe to try is the Pesto Rice & Bean Soup, which can be customized with different types of beans or broth according to your preferences.
For a unique twist on cabbage, the Coconut Braised Cabbage recipe transforms this humble vegetable into a savory and slightly spicy dish simmered in coconut milk broth along with chickpeas.
Roasted Chickpeas are not just for hummus; they also make a delicious and versatile snack that can be seasoned with various spices from your pantry.
Lastly, the Creamy White Bean Dip is a simple and tasty option for a quick and easy dip to share with friends and family.
Here are some delicious recipes to try for your next gathering:
1. Creamy White Bean Dip: Perfect for a last-minute appetizer or to prepare in advance. Serve with spring veggies and pita chips for dipping.
2. Black Bean Tostadas: A simple and tasty meal option that you can customize with toppings like corn salsa and avocado ranch.
3. 7-Layer Dip: This dip has everything you could ever want – refried beans, guacamole, salsa, sour cream, cheese, and fresh veggies.
4. Three Bean Salad: A convenient recipe using canned beans, or you can opt for homemade kidney, cannellini, and green beans.
5. Huevos Rancheros Casserole: Enjoy the flavors of huevos rancheros in an easy casserole form that requires minimal effort.
6. Air Fryer Tahini Black Bean Fritters: Crispy bean cakes perfect on their own or in a veggie burger.
7. Antipasto Chickpea Salad: A versatile dish that can be a side or a main course, with a creamy Dijon mustard vinaigrette.
8. Crispy Chili-Lime Chickpea Salad: A spicy and crunchy salad with a twist of Baja California flavors.
9. Stuffed Butternut Squash: Baked squash topped with a filling of quinoa, kale, and chickpeas, finished with cranberries and pumpkin seeds.
10. Chicken Enchilada Dip: Transform the flavors of chicken enchiladas into a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day.
Enjoy trying out these tasty recipes!
Creamy Tortellini Minestrone Recipe
When it comes to classic Italian minestrone soup, we believe in abundance. While vegetables typically take the spotlight, we decided to add a creamy twist along with cheese-filled tortellini. Find the recipe for the Creamy Tortellini Minestrone below.
Socca Recipe
Socca, also known as farinata, is a popular chickpea flatbread in the Mediterranean. This simple dish requires just a few ingredients – chickpea flour, water, salt, and olive oil. The chickpea flour gives it a crispy exterior and a soft center, making it naturally gluten-free. Check out the Socca recipe.
Hearty Red Bean & Barley Stew Recipe
Move over beef and barley soup, this vegetarian stew is a game-changer. Packed with beans, sweet potato, and barley, this stew will keep you satisfied for hours. Find the recipe for the Hearty Red Bean & Barley Stew below.
Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice Skillet Recipe
For a quick and family-friendly meal, try this one-skillet Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice dish. With spiced ground beef, flavorful rice, beans, and cheese, it’s a delicious meal ready in just 40 minutes. Get the recipe for the Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice Skillet.
Anything Goes Grain Salad Recipe
Indulge in a delightful grain salad filled with a variety of ingredients. This farro and white bean salad boasts roasted veggies, crunchy bell peppers, and radicchio, all tossed in a honey-lemon dressing. Check out the recipe for the Anything Goes Grain Salad.
Cowboy Caviar Recipe
Despite its name, Cowboy Caviar doesn’t contain fish eggs. This hearty appetizer was created by chef Helen Corbitt in the 1940s and features black-eyed peas. Elevate your appetizer game with this delicious dish. Find the Cowboy Caviar recipe below.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl Recipe
For a tried-and-true favorite, nothing beats a Chipotle chicken burrito bowl. Completely customizable and delicious, this meal is a go-to when you’re in the mood for a perfect bowl. Get the Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl recipe.
White Chicken Chili Recipe
Add heartiness and spice to your chicken noodle soup with this White Chicken Chili recipe. White beans, green chiles, jalapeños, and sour cream create a flavorful and creamy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Nachos Supreme Recipe
Elevate your game day snacking with these iconic Nachos Supreme. Loaded with beef, beans, cheese, and a variety of fresh toppings, these nachos are sure to impress. Find the recipe below.
Mix together a variety of colorful ingredients like vegetables, beans, and corn to create a vibrant meal that can be enjoyed with chips or as a standalone dish. Add some pearl couscous to elevate it to the star attraction at any picnic or potluck event. Find the Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad recipe below.
For a delightful breakfast or breakfast-for-dinner option, try out the Baked Feta Eggs recipe. This dish features baked eggs with white beans for a creamy texture, best enjoyed with crusty bread or pita on the side.
If you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex inspired meal, check out the Crock-Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe. It’s a low-effort dish that is both delicious and customizable to suit your preferences.
For a quick and refreshing summer dish, whip up the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad using canned chickpeas. The lemon-parsley vinaigrette adds a tangy and fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
Looking to jazz up your pasta salad game? Try the Cowboy Pasta Salad recipe, which combines the flavors of taco salad with pasta for a simple yet tasty side dish for your summer gatherings.
For a unique twist on bruschetta, attempt the Black-Eyed Pea Bruschetta recipe featuring a mixture of black-eyed peas, collard greens, bell pepper, scallions, and garlic tossed in an apple cider vinaigrette on toasted baguette slices.
Enjoy a vegan-friendly version of chicken noodle soup with the Chickpea Noodle Soup recipe, made with chickpeas and orecchiette pasta for a hearty and comforting meal.
Discover a flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers with the Black Bean Burgers recipe, focusing on the natural taste of beans for a satisfying meal.
Indulge in the Vegetarian Enchiladas, stuffed with a hearty combination of corn, beans, and zucchini, topped with two types of cheese and garnished with avocado, tomato, and cilantro.
For a versatile and easy-to-make side dish or topping, try the Black Bean & Corn Salad featuring exciting flavors reminiscent of a vegetarian burrito bowl with a honey-lime twist.
Explore the sweet and chewy Japanese treat, mochi, made from cooked and pounded rice, for a unique culinary experience.
Mochi, a chewy Japanese treat, can be easily prepared using rice flour. Traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, these delightful balls can also feature fillings like ice cream, matcha green tea, or black sesame paste. For the Mochi recipe, click here.
Indulge in a flavorful Black Bean Dip by blending black beans with garlic, jalapeño, and cheese, then topping it with even more cheese before baking. Enjoy this delicious dip with your favorite toppings post-baking. Find the Black Bean Dip recipe here.
For a hearty vegetarian dinner option, try the Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Casserole. Layers of roasted sweet potatoes and black bean chili are topped with a gooey blanket of cheese, delivering both comfort and heartiness. Get the recipe for Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Casserole here.
Vegans and vegetarians can relish the cozy vibes of a classic spaghetti and meatballs dish with the Vegan Meatballs recipe. These chickpea-based meatballs are flavorful, quick to make, and provide a good amount of protein and fiber. Serve with spaghetti or your preferred pasta shape. Get the Vegan Meatballs recipe here.
Savor the fresh flavors of Succotash, a sweet and savory vegetable combination perfect for a light summer side dish. This dish pairs corn, zucchini, and lima beans with crispy bacon for added texture and flavor. Find the Succotash recipe here.
Take pleasure in a Southern tradition with the Black-Eyed Pea Salad, a dish believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten on New Year’s. This easy and delicious salad improves in flavor as it sits, and you can use either dried or canned beans. Get the Black-Eyed Pea Salad recipe here.
Enjoy a twist on classic clam chowder with the Green Chili Clam Chowder recipe. This version uses hatch chiles and salsa verde for a kick of flavor and color, and swaps potatoes for tender white beans. Discover the Green Chili Clam Chowder recipe here.
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Minestrone Soup, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. This satisfying recipe features a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, topped with grated cheese and served with crusty bread. Get the Minestrone Soup recipe here.
Elevate white beans with a zesty Herb Sauce in the Cannellini Beans With Herb Sauce recipe. The bright flavors of lemon and basil enhance these beans, making them a versatile side dish or a meal when topped with a poached egg. Find the Cannellini Beans With Herb Sauce recipe here.
Celebrate New Year’s with a batch of flavorful Black Eyed Peas, a symbol of good luck and prosperity, often served with cabbage or collard greens. Enjoy these beans along with golden cornbread for a delicious start to the new year. Get the New Year’s Black Eyed Peas recipe here.
For a delectable meal, try the Cheesy
The exact origin of the burrito is unknown, but it is believed to have first appeared on an American restaurant menu at El Cholo Spanish Cafe in Los Angeles during the 1930s. Today, the burrito comes in many forms – from egg-filled breakfast burritos to deep-fried burritos (also known as chimichangas) to smothered “wet burritos.” Ethan Calabrese’s Cheesy Baked Burritos recipe is a delicious example of this versatile dish.
Looking for a quick and easy soup alternative to chicken noodle? Try Ethan Calabrese’s Lemony Chicken & Orzo Soup, a bright and hearty option filled with veggies, chicken, beans, and orzo.
For a taste of France, try Andrew Bui’s Cassoulet recipe. This dish typically features duck confit, but Andrew’s version uses chicken for accessibility without sacrificing tenderness and flavor.
Craving a tuna salad but want a plant-based option? Suzanne Clements’ Chickpea “Tuna” Salad is a creamy and zingy alternative that will satisfy your cravings.
Need a go-to soup with flexibility? Suzanne Clements’ Escarole & White Bean Soup is the perfect recipe to use up ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
Looking for a thick and creamy vegetarian kale soup? Parker Feierbach’s Best Vegetarian Kale Soup is a hearty option that can be blended for a smoother texture.
Warm up with a spicy Black Bean Soup provided by Parker Feierbach. This rich and creamy soup is spiced just right and perfect for a cozy meal.
Upgrade your toast game with Ethan Calabrese’s Cheesy Mushroom Toast, inspired by classic Beef Wellington flavors and featuring oyster mushrooms cooked duxelles-style.
For a comforting American classic, try Park Feierbach’s Frito Pie recipe, popularized in the American Southwest and known for its delicious combination of ground beef, cheese, and Fritos.
Give pinto beans a chance with Lucy Schaeffer’s Smoky Pinto Beans recipe, which infuses bacon for added flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes.
Explore these delicious recipes and add some variety to your meal rotation!
Chocolate mousse is a delightful dessert made using aquafaba, the miraculous liquid extracted from cooked chickpeas. By whipping it vigorously, aquafaba mimics the properties of egg whites while being virtually tasteless, making it a versatile ingredient for various recipes. One such creation is a delectable chocolate mousse that is as light as air. For the full Aquafaba Chocolate Mousse recipe, refer to the details provided by Chelsea Lupkin.
Indulge in the rich and fudgy goodness of Black Bean Brownies, a treat so decadent that neither you nor your lucky companions will suspect the secret ingredient of black beans hidden within. The recipe, curated by Jonathan Boulton, promises a delightful surprise with every bite.
Revamp the classic bean salad with a modern twist through the Four-Bean Salad recipe. Featuring a combination of original beans complemented by a tahini-yogurt dressing and crunchy peanuts, this updated version by June Xie is sure to win your heart with its fresh flavors.
Explore the healthier side of desserts with White Bean Blondies, a creative variation of traditional blondies using white beans. These treats, shared by Brad Holland, offer a nutritious alternative to satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on taste.
In addition to these tempting recipes, discover more culinary wonders and cocktail inspirations through the collection of Insanely Easy Weeknight Dinners and 29 Insanely Delicious Vodka Cocktails. Let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey with these delightful suggestions curated for your gastronomic pleasure.
