Black Bean Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

Black Bean and Corn Casserole

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

Ingredients:

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped white onion
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced, seeded jalapeo
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2/3 cup jarred medium picante sauce or chunky salsa (such as Pace)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 (15 ounce) can sweet whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chopped, seeded tomato
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
• Lime wedges, cilantro leaves, sour cream, salsa, warm corn or flour tortillas, or tortilla chips, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Coat an 8x8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeo. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, picante sauce, water, kosher salt, cumin, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, mash the beans slightly until the mixture thickens a bit.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Let it simmer undisturbed until the sauce thickens and bubbles appear across the surface, about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Stir in the corn and remove the skillet from heat.
6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with chopped tomato, Monterey Jack cheese, and Cheddar cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheeses are melted.
8. Sprinkle the casserole with sliced green onions and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
9. Serve with lime wedges, cilantro leaves, sour cream, salsa, warm tortillas, or tortilla chips as desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 365
• Total Fat: 13g (17% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (30% DV)
• Cholesterol: 26mg (9% DV)
• Sodium: 1141mg (50% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 13g (48% DV)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 19g (39% DV)
• Vitamin C: 50mg (55% DV)
• Calcium: 289mg (22% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (21% DV)
• Potassium: 880mg (19% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Black Bean Casserole

Black bean casserole is a dish deeply rooted in Latin American culinary traditions, particularly in Mexican cuisine. Beans have been a staple in the region for thousands of years, dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans, who cultivated black beans as a primary protein source. Over time, casseroles emerged as a convenient way to combine beans with vegetables, spices, and cheeses to create a hearty, one-dish meal. This method of preparation reflects both practicality and the cultural emphasis on balanced, flavorful meals.

Regional Variations

While black bean casseroles are widely associated with Mexican cuisine, they vary across regions. In northern Mexico, the dish may include spicier elements such as serrano peppers, while southern versions often incorporate sweet corn, tomatoes, and local cheeses like Oaxaca or Queso Fresco. In the southwestern United States, black bean casseroles are often baked with cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese and served with tortillas, reflecting the fusion of Mexican and American culinary influences.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Black bean casserole differs from similar bean-based dishes like chili or baked beans in its composition and presentation. Unlike chili, it is less soupy and more cohesive, designed to be sliced and served as a single portion. Unlike baked beans, which are often sweet and served as a side, black bean casserole emphasizes a balance of savory, spicy, and smoky flavors, making it suitable as a main dish. The inclusion of melted cheeses and fresh vegetables also distinguishes it from simpler bean bakes.

Where Its Typically Served

Black bean casserole is versatile and can be served in various settings. It is commonly featured at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings due to its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor. In Mexican restaurants, it may appear as a vegetarian entre or a filling for tacos and enchiladas. Street food vendors may also offer a simplified version as a topping for nachos or a side dish alongside rice and grilled meats.

Interesting Facts

• Black beans are not only flavorful but also rich in fiber and protein, making casseroles a nutritious choice for vegetarians.
• The casserole format allows cooks to experiment with layering ingredients, similar to lasagna, creating unique textures and flavors.
• Adding a splash of lime or fresh cilantro just before serving is a traditional practice that enhances the dishs freshness and balances the richness of the cheese.
• Despite being relatively modern in its baked form, the concept of combining beans with vegetables and spices has ancient origins in Mesoamerican cuisine.

FAQ about Black Bean Casserole Recipe

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