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Quick and Easy Black Beans

Spicy black bean bake served in a round glass Anyday dish, topped with crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and cilantro leaves on the side.
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Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

7-8 mins

Free Time

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Quick and Easy Black Beans

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These seasoned black beans bring bold flavor energy, and it’s all happening in the microwave with an Anyday dish. Smoky paprika, garlic, and a kick of red pepper flakes turn a simple tomato base into a rich, spiced coating for canned black beans that are anything but boring. Top with fresh cilantro for a pop of brightness or go all-in with melty cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist. Serve it as a side, a dip, or spoon it over rice or nachos for a flavor-packed upgrade. Quick, easy, and absolutely not your average side dish!

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

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Dish

The Medium Deep Everything Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 (14-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) chicken stock, or veggie stock
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)

Preparation

  1. Place all the ingredients except the cilantro and cheese in an Anyday dish and stir to combine. Cover it with the lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave for 5-6 minutes, or until the beans and sauce have heated through and thickened slightly. The sauce will firm up more as it cools.
  3. Top with cheese and heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until melted. Top with chopped cilantro and serve.

Suggestions

  • With avocado and lime: Serve the black beans with sliced avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh and vibrant contrast to the spiciness.
  • Spicy black bean rice bowl: Serve the spicy black beans over a bed of cooked rice, then top with a poached egg and a dollop of sour cream.
  • As a side dish: Serve the black beans as a hearty side dish for chicken, fish, or ground beef.
  • Spicy black bean stuffed peppers: Use the black beans to stuff bell peppers or spaghetti squash.
  • Discover more bean recipes by exploring our collection here!

Recipe Notes

  • For a milder dish, omit the chili flakes.
  • Use any type of beans you prefer, such as canned kidney, red, white, butter, or garbanzo beans (chickpeas).
  • Find out how to cook beans from scratch in the microwave here!
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

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All You Need to Know About Making Spicy Black Beans

What are black beans?

Seasoned black beans are a bold and flavorful side dish made with canned black beans, tomato paste, and smoky spices like smoked paprika and cumin. It’s cooked in an Anyday dish for convenience and can be topped with cilantro or melted Monterey Jack cheese. This versatile dish works as a side, taco filling, or even a stand-alone meal.

Can I make black beans in the microwave?

Absolutely! The microwave simplifies this recipe, allowing you to mix and cook everything in one Anyday dish. The dish ensures even heating and reduces cleanup, making it a quick and convenient way to prepare this flavorful meal.

Can I customize black beans?

Yes! This recipe is highly versatile. Add diced onions, bell peppers, or even jalapeños for extra texture and heat. You can also mix in cooked ground meat or tofu for added protein or swap the black beans for pinto or kidney beans for a twist on flavor.

How do I store leftover black beans?

Once cooled, store leftovers in your Anyday dish covered with the lid. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.

Can I freeze black beans?

Yes, spicy black bean bake freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled dish into our Anytime Freezer Trays for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

What’s the best way to reheat black beans?

To reheat from the fridge, place the black bean bake in an Anyday dish, cover with the lid, and microwave on full power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If reheating from frozen, add the frozen portion to an Anyday dish and microwave on full power for 3-4 minutes, stirring as needed. Adjust the time based on portion size and microwave wattage

Can I make black beans dairy-free?

Absolutely! Skip the cheese topping or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative to keep the dish entirely plant-based.

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