One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet
The aroma of spices and warm cheese wafts through the air, exciting your senses with the promise of a hearty dish. Picture a vibrant medley of sweet potatoes, black beans, and zesty salsa, simmering happily together in a single skillet. It’s the kind of one-pot meal that beckons friends to come gather around the table, laughter echoing as the colors jump from the pan to their plates.
Table of Contents
As I recall some of my most cherished family gatherings, this One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet often takes center stage. It was during those cozy evenings that we shared not just a meal but also plenty of stories and laughter. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe’s warmth and flavor never fail to create a delightful experience. It’s not just a meal but a path to feel connected with the people we love. So, are you ready to whip up this delicious One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet and make your own fond memories?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 25 minutes, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of zesty salsa and savory sweet potatoes will tantalize your taste buds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: This dish looks as good as it tastes—colorful and inviting, it’s sure to impress!
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner with family or even as a dish for a casual get-together.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customizable to be gluten-free or vegetarian.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: This type of rice cooks beautifully in the skillet, soaking in all the flavorful broth.
- 1 cup salsa: Choose your favorite for flavor; medium or mild works well. If you prefer a kick, opt for spicy salsa!
- 2 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced: These not only add sweetness but also pack in fiber and nutrients. Feel free to substitute with butternut squash for a similar texture.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: These hearty beans provide protein and a creamy texture; kidney beans can work too!
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained: For a boost of flavor and a bit of heat. If you can’t find these, jalapeños are a great alternative.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: This adds depth and warmth; feel free to adjust to your taste. You might even consider a smoked chili powder for extra flavor.
- 1 ¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Chicken broth creates a savory base, but vegetable broth is perfect for a plant-based dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melting this on top adds a scrumptious creamy layer. You can use Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Their fresh crunch adds brightness and flavor to the dish.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds a refreshing zing that balances the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: This herb ties everything together, offering a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a suitable substitute.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Use these to enhance and adjust the overall flavors to your liking.
How to Make One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet
Combine and Cook: In a large skillet, combine the uncooked rice, salsa, diced sweet potatoes, black beans, green chiles, chili powder, and broth. Over high heat, cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer gently for 15 minutes. You’re looking for the rice to absorb the liquid and the sweet potatoes to be tender—a delightful bubbling around the edges will guide you!
Rest and Fluff: After the simmering time, remove the skillet from the heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the rice to finish steaming while letting the flavors mingle. When you uncover it, grab a fork and fluff the mixture gently, incorporating the ingredients while releasing the delicious aromas. Stir in the fresh lime juice and sliced green onions, seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
Melt and Serve: Now comes the crowning glory—top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese, then cover the skillet again for just a few minutes. This allows the cheese to melt into a gooey layer that promises heartiness in every bite. Once melted, uncover the skillet and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve this vibrant dish hot from the skillet, and watch as your family gathers around for a hearty meal!
Storing & Reheating
You can store any leftovers from your One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet at room temperature for up to two hours after cooking. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the flavors if needed.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy—this keeps the texture enjoyable.
- If you don’t have fresh cilantro, consider garnishing with avocados or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Experiment with different types of cheese; pepper jack adds a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Serve this dish with tortilla chips for a fun crunch or alongside a fresh salad for extra veggies.
- If you like it saucier, simply add a bit more broth or reduce the amount of rice based on your preference.
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet hits the mark! Filled with vibrant ingredients and textures, it’s an excellent way to bring the family together without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Enjoy customizing it to your liking; don’t hesitate to toss in any leftover veggies you have on hand. There’s so much joy in creating something delightful from simple ingredients!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you are all set for a yummy vegetarian meal. The flavors will still shine through beautifully, so you won’t miss anything!
What can I serve with my skillet?
This dish stands well alone—however, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad, some tortilla chips, or guacamole for added flavor and fun textures. A side of sour cream can also balance the spiciness!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you enjoy heat, feel free to add extra chili powder, some diced jalapeños, or use spicy salsa. A dash of hot sauce right before serving could give it the extra kick you’re craving!
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and increase the broth to about 2 1/4 cups. Brown rice usually takes around 30-35 minutes to cook, so allow for that in your timing as well.
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📖 Recipe Card
One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Southwest
Description
Savor the delicious flavors of this One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet, featuring sweet potatoes, black beans, and zesty salsa. Perfect for quick dinners and gathering with friends, this easy dish brings warmth and connection to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the uncooked rice, salsa, diced sweet potatoes, black beans, green chiles, chili powder, and broth in a large skillet.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes while still covered.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork, stir in lime juice and green onions, and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with cheese, cover again until melted, and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Notes
Use medium or mild salsa, or spicy for more heat.
Sweet potatoes can be substituted with butternut squash.
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
