15 Nutritious Black Bean Dinner Recipes for Weeknight Meals

Black beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can transform any dinner into a hearty, flavorful meal.

Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, black beans are perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike.

From soups and stews to tacos, casseroles, and salads, there’s no limit to what you can create with black beans.

If you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve curated 15 black bean dinner recipes that are easy to prepare, delicious, and satisfying.

These recipes are ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Each dish combines bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and simple cooking techniques to make your dinners both nutritious and exciting.

15 Nutritious Black Bean Dinner Recipes for Weeknight Meals

Black beans are a powerhouse ingredient that can elevate any dinner with their flavor, texture, and nutrition.

These 15 black bean dinner recipes offer a wide variety of options, from comforting soups to vibrant salads and hearty casseroles.

They’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and fiber.

Experiment with these recipes, add your favorite spices and toppings, and create meals that are both satisfying and wholesome.

With black beans as the star, dinner becomes delicious, nutritious, and effortless.

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos

Enjoy a vibrant, nutritious dinner with these black bean and sweet potato tacos.

They are packed with tender roasted sweet potatoes, seasoned black beans, and fresh toppings.

The combination of earthy sweet potatoes, creamy beans, and zesty lime creates a delicious flavor balance.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ½ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
• In a small pan, heat black beans over medium heat until warmed through.
• Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
• Fill each tortilla with roasted sweet potatoes and black beans.
• Top with chopped cilantro and crumbled cheese.
• Squeeze lime juice over the tacos before serving.

These black bean and sweet potato tacos are vibrant, hearty, and full of flavor.

The combination of sweet, smoky, and tangy elements is irresistible.

Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

The tacos are easy to assemble and highly customizable.

Every bite delivers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.

Black Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Indulge in a colorful and nutritious dinner with these black bean and quinoa stuffed peppers.

The filling is hearty, protein-packed, and seasoned with aromatic spices.

Topped with melted cheese, the peppers are both visually appealing and flavorful.

Ideal for a balanced dinner that satisfies both vegetarians and meat-eaters.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
• Add black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in cooked quinoa and cook for 2–3 minutes.
• Stuff each bell pepper with the black bean and quinoa mixture.
• Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.

These stuffed peppers are hearty, colorful, and satisfying.

The combination of quinoa, black beans, and spices creates a rich, balanced flavor.

They’re perfect for a nutritious and visually appealing dinner.

The melted cheese adds creaminess and enhances the taste.

Each bite is flavorful, protein-packed, and comforting.

Black Bean and Corn Chili

Warm up with a flavorful and filling black bean and corn chili.

This dish combines tender black beans, sweet corn, and tomatoes in a rich, spiced broth.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

Topped with avocado or cheese, it’s both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
• Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
• Reduce heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
• Serve hot with optional toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

This black bean and corn chili is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

The combination of beans, corn, and spices creates a rich, comforting dish.

It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Each spoonful is warming, nutritious, and filling.

The chili is simple to prepare yet packed with bold flavors.

Black Bean and Spinach Enchiladas

Delight in a rich and flavorful dinner with black bean and spinach enchiladas.

The filling is creamy, nutritious, and perfectly spiced for a comforting meal.

Topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese, it’s indulgent yet wholesome.

Ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients:

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
• Add black beans, spinach, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking until spinach is wilted.
• Spoon the mixture into tortillas and roll them up.
• Place enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish.
• Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

These black bean and spinach enchiladas are hearty, flavorful, and wholesome.

The combination of beans, spinach, and spices is perfectly balanced.

The melted cheese and sauce add richness and depth of flavor.

They’re ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special meal.

Every bite is comforting, nutritious, and deliciously indulgent.

Black Bean and Veggie Stir-Fry

Enjoy a quick and vibrant dinner with this black bean and veggie stir-fry.

It’s packed with fresh vegetables, tender black beans, and a savory sauce.

The combination of textures and flavors makes this meal both satisfying and healthy.

Perfect for a light dinner or for serving over rice or quinoa.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, stir-frying for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
• Add black beans, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger, stirring to combine.
• Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.
• Adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve immediately over rice or quinoa and garnish with green onions if desired.

This black bean and veggie stir-fry is colorful, healthy, and flavorful.

The combination of fresh vegetables and beans creates a balanced, satisfying meal.

It’s perfect for a quick, weeknight dinner with minimal prep.

The stir-fry is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Every bite is nutritious, delicious, and packed with bold flavors

Black Bean and Avocado Burrito Bowls

Enjoy a fresh, satisfying dinner with black bean and avocado burrito bowls.

They are packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and spices.

The creamy avocado, seasoned black beans, and zesty lime make each bite delicious.

Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup corn kernels
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime, juiced
• Optional: chopped cilantro or shredded cheese

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well and cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
• Divide cooked rice or quinoa into serving bowls.
• Top with the black bean mixture and diced avocado.
• Drizzle lime juice over each bowl.
• Garnish with cilantro or shredded cheese if desired.

These black bean and avocado burrito bowls are fresh, hearty, and flavorful.

The combination of beans, vegetables, and creamy avocado is perfectly balanced.

They’re perfect for nutritious weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

The bowls are colorful, filling, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Enchiladas

Savor a cozy, flavorful dinner with black bean and sweet potato enchiladas.

Tender roasted sweet potatoes and creamy black beans are wrapped in tortillas.

Topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese, these enchiladas are irresistible.

They are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups roasted sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until soft.
• Add black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Spoon the mixture into tortillas and roll them up.
• Place enchiladas in a baking dish seam-side down.
• Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

These black bean and sweet potato enchiladas are hearty, flavorful, and comforting.

The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices is perfectly balanced.

Topped with melted cheese and sauce, they are indulgent yet wholesome.

They’re ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Every bite delivers rich, satisfying flavors and textures.

Black Bean and Veggie Quesadillas

Delight in a quick, delicious dinner with black bean and veggie quesadillas.

They are crispy, cheesy, and packed with protein and fiber.

The combination of beans, peppers, and cheese makes a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for serving

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté onion and bell peppers until tender.
• Add black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
• Place a tortilla in a clean skillet and sprinkle half the cheese over one side.
• Add the black bean and vegetable mixture on top.
• Fold the tortilla and cook until golden brown on both sides and cheese is melted.
• Repeat with remaining tortillas.
• Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole if desired.

These black bean and veggie quesadillas are crispy, cheesy, and flavorful.

The combination of beans and vegetables is perfectly balanced.

They’re ideal for quick, easy weeknight dinners.

Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and rich, hearty flavor.

Quesadillas are versatile, colorful, and loved by both adults and kids.

Black Bean and Rice Casserole

Enjoy a wholesome, hearty dinner with black bean and rice casserole.

This dish combines protein-packed black beans with fluffy rice and savory vegetables.

Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, it’s warm and comforting.

Perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion, corn, and bell pepper until tender.
• Add black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
• In a baking dish, combine cooked rice and the black bean mixture.
• Spread evenly and top with shredded cheese.
• Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

This black bean and rice casserole is hearty, cheesy, and comforting.

The combination of beans, rice, and vegetables provides a satisfying, balanced meal.

It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Each bite is rich, flavorful, and filling.

The melted cheese adds creaminess and enhances the savory flavors.

Spicy Black Bean Soup

Warm up with a rich and flavorful spicy black bean soup.

It’s packed with protein, fiber, and bold, savory spices for a comforting dinner.

The combination of beans, tomatoes, and chili creates a hearty, satisfying bowl.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: sour cream, avocado, or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Sauté onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
• Add black beans, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Use an immersion blender or regular blender to partially puree the soup for a creamy texture.
• Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.

This spicy black bean soup is hearty, flavorful, and warming.

The combination of beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich, satisfying flavor.

It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Each spoonful is nourishing, bold, and delicious.

The soup is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.

Black Bean and Zucchini Fritters

Enjoy a crispy, savory dinner with black bean and zucchini fritters.

These fritters are packed with protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables for a healthy yet indulgent meal.

The combination of beans, zucchini, and spices creates a flavorful, satisfying bite.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

• Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture.
• In a large bowl, mash black beans slightly and combine with zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Scoop ¼ cup of the mixture and flatten into a patty.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
• Repeat with remaining mixture.

These black bean and zucchini fritters are crispy, flavorful, and nutritious.

They’re perfect for a light dinner or side dish.

The combination of zucchini and beans delivers a balanced texture and taste.

Each bite is savory, wholesome, and satisfying.

Fritters are easy to make, versatile, and loved by all ages.

Black Bean and Mushroom Tacos

Savor a savory, earthy dinner with black bean and mushroom tacos.

The mushrooms add a meaty texture that pairs perfectly with protein-packed black beans.

Seasoned with spices and topped with fresh garnishes, these tacos are flavorful and satisfying.

Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• Optional toppings: avocado, lime, salsa

Instructions:

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
• Add mushrooms, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for 5–6 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
• Stir in black beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
• Warm tortillas and fill with the mushroom and bean mixture.
• Top with cilantro and optional toppings.

These black bean and mushroom tacos are earthy, hearty, and flavorful.

The beans provide protein while mushrooms add a satisfying texture.

They’re perfect for quick, nutritious weeknight dinners.

Each bite is savory, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors.

Tacos are versatile, customizable, and loved by adults and kids alike.

Black Bean and Butternut Squash Curry

Warm up with a rich and aromatic black bean and butternut squash curry.

The sweet squash balances perfectly with protein-rich black beans and a flavorful spice blend.

This dish is comforting, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups butternut squash, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
• Add butternut squash, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stir in black beans and coconut milk.
• Simmer for 15–20 minutes until squash is tender and flavors meld.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This black bean and butternut squash curry is rich, aromatic, and comforting.

The sweet squash and protein-rich beans create a perfect balance.

It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Every spoonful delivers bold, satisfying flavors and textures.

The curry is healthy, hearty, and full of wholesome ingredients.

Black Bean and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Enjoy a nutritious, colorful dinner with black bean and spinach stuffed sweet potatoes.

The creamy sweet potato pairs perfectly with savory black beans and tender spinach.

Topped with a drizzle of lime or yogurt, this meal is both healthy and satisfying.

Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: lime juice, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 45–50 minutes until tender.
• In a skillet, sauté spinach with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until wilted.
• Warm black beans in a small saucepan.
• Slice baked sweet potatoes open and fill with black beans and spinach mixture.
• Drizzle with lime juice or top with yogurt and cilantro if desired.

These stuffed sweet potatoes are hearty, nutritious, and flavorful.

The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and spinach is perfectly balanced.

They’re ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Each bite is creamy, savory, and satisfying.

The dish is colorful, filling, and easy to customize with toppings.

Black Bean and Cauliflower Tacos

Savor a low-carb, flavorful dinner with black bean and cauliflower tacos.

The roasted cauliflower adds a satisfying texture alongside protein-packed black beans.

Topped with fresh salsa and avocado, these tacos are healthy and delicious.

Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro, lime

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
• Warm tortillas and fill with roasted cauliflower and black beans.
• Top with avocado, salsa, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

These black bean and cauliflower tacos are healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.

The roasted cauliflower adds a tender, slightly crispy texture.

They’re perfect for quick, nutritious dinners or casual meals.

Each bite delivers a balance of protein, vegetables, and spices.

The tacos are colorful, filling, and easy to customize with toppings.