25 Brilliant Recipes Using Canned Beans (That Aren’t Chili!)
Canned beans. They’re the unsung heroes of the pantry, the budget-friendly building blocks of countless quick and delicious meals. We all know and love them in chili, but their potential stretches far beyond that single, albeit delicious, dish. Prepare to be amazed at the versatility of these humble legumes!
From comforting classics to exciting new creations, we’ve compiled a list of 25 brilliant recipes that showcase the incredible power of canned beans. Get ready to ditch the chili rut and embark on a bean-filled culinary adventure. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
Forget dry, crumbly veggie burgers! Canned black beans are the key to a moist, flavorful, and seriously satisfying burger. Mash them up with some breadcrumbs, spices, and your favorite veggies, then grill or pan-fry to perfection. Top with all your favorite burger fixings and enjoy a guilt-free, protein-packed meal.
White Bean and Tuna Salad Recipe
Tuna salad just got a serious upgrade! Adding creamy white beans to your tuna salad not only boosts the protein and fiber but also adds a delightful texture and richness. Mix it all together with some celery, onion, and a light mayonnaise dressing for a quick and healthy lunch.
Hummus Recipe
Why buy store-bought when you can make your own hummus in minutes? Canned chickpeas are the star of the show in this simple and delicious dip. Just blend them with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a creamy, flavorful snack that’s perfect with veggies, pita bread, or crackers.
Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
This hearty Italian soup is the ultimate comfort food. Canned cannellini beans add a creamy texture and delicious flavor to this pasta and bean soup. Simply combine with pasta, vegetables, and broth for a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Three Bean Salad Recipe
A classic for a reason! This tangy and refreshing salad is a potluck staple. Combine kidney beans, cannellini beans, and green beans with a simple vinaigrette dressing for a colorful and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering.
Black Bean Salsa Recipe
Spice up your snack time with this vibrant and flavorful black bean salsa! Combine black beans with corn, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice for a healthy and delicious dip that’s perfect with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled chicken.
Bean and Cheese Burritos Recipe
A quick and easy weeknight dinner! Refried beans (often made with canned pinto beans) are the perfect filling for these simple burritos. Just spread them on a tortilla with cheese and your favorite toppings, then roll it up and enjoy!
Minestrone Soup Recipe
This hearty vegetable soup is packed with flavor and nutrients! Canned kidney beans or cannellini beans add substance and protein to this classic Italian soup. Add your favorite vegetables, pasta, and broth for a complete and satisfying meal.
Baked Beans Recipe
Sweet, savory, and totally addictive! Canned navy beans are the base for this classic side dish. Bake them with molasses, brown sugar, bacon, and onions for a flavorful and comforting treat that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering.
Refried Beans Recipe
Forget the store-bought stuff! Making your own refried beans with canned pinto beans is surprisingly easy and much more delicious. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, then add the beans and mash them with a potato masher. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bean and Rice Bowls Recipe
A customizable and healthy meal! Cook some rice, then top it with your favorite canned beans (black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans all work well), salsa, avocado, and any other toppings you like. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying way to get a balanced meal.
Bean Quesadillas Recipe
A cheesy and flavorful snack or light meal! Spread refried beans on a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and fold in half. Cook in a skillet until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve with salsa and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Lentil Soup Recipe
While technically lentils aren’t beans, you can substitute canned kidney beans for a chunkier soup. This protein-packed soup is perfect for a cold day. Simmer lentils with vegetables and broth for a healthy and comforting meal.
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A hearty and satisfying vegetarian twist on a classic! Substitute ground beef with a mixture of lentils, vegetables, and canned kidney beans for a protein-packed and flavorful filling. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown.
Bean and Corn Salad Recipe
A simple and refreshing salad that’s perfect for summer! Combine black beans, corn, red onion, bell pepper, and cilantro with a lime vinaigrette dressing for a light and flavorful side dish.
Taco Salad Recipe
Skip the tortilla and enjoy a delicious and customizable taco salad! Layer lettuce, ground beef (or vegetarian alternative), black beans, cheese, salsa, and sour cream in a bowl. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
Spicy Bean Dip Recipe
Heat things up with this flavorful bean dip! Blend canned black beans with jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice for a spicy and addictive dip that’s perfect with tortilla chips or vegetables.
Black Bean Soup Recipe
A creamy and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cold day! Blend canned black beans with broth, onions, garlic, and spices for a smooth and satisfying soup. Top with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for added flavor.
White Bean Dip Recipe
A sophisticated and flavorful dip that’s perfect for entertaining! Blend canned cannellini beans with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a creamy and delicious dip that’s perfect with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Bean Patties Recipe
These delicious and versatile patties are perfect for a quick and easy meal! Mash canned pinto beans or black beans with breadcrumbs, spices, and your favorite vegetables, then pan-fry or bake until golden brown. Serve on buns, in salads, or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cowboy Caviar Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful dip that’s perfect for parties! Combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro with a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Bean Enchiladas Recipe
A cheesy and delicious Mexican classic! Fill tortillas with refried beans and cheese, then roll them up and bake in enchilada sauce. Top with more cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Bean and Vegetable Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cold day! Combine your favorite canned beans (kidney beans, cannellini beans, or black beans all work well) with vegetables and broth for a warm and satisfying meal.
Garbanzo Bean Salad Recipe
Combine garbanzo beans with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a lemon vinaigrette for a quick and healthy salad. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish.
Pinto Bean Cakes Recipe
Similar to bean patties but made with Pinto beans. Combine mashed pinto beans with breadcrumbs, spices, and veggies. Fry in a pan and serve with your favorite sauce.