Black Bean Chili Express
A hearty black bean chili with melted jalapeno Jack cheese, served with warm corn muffins—perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal that satisfies any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a 4-quart saucepan over high heat, cook the black beans, salsa, and corn for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until hot.
- Meanwhile, arrange the corn muffins on an ungreased cookie sheet and heat in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Remove the bean mixture from heat.
- Stir in 3/4 cup grated jalapeno Jack cheese until melted.
- Remove muffins from the oven and sprinkle with remaining cheese, if desired.
- Serve the chili sprinkled with remaining cheese and accompanied by hot muffins.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding the beans and salsa. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can substitute the jalapeno Jack cheese with pepper jack or cheddar if needed. This dish is also perfect for using up leftover beans from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Black Bean Chili Express with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Granny Bell'S Mexican Corn Bread for a hearty meal. Consider adding a side of tortilla chips for crunch or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bean Chili Express contains roughly 1203 calories, with 68g protein, 215g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), protein (137% of the Daily Value), and potassium (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian as it features black beans and corn. Just ensure that the salsa you use is also vegetarian-friendly. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or chili powder to your taste. If you love spicy food, consider serving with a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the chili for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the Black Bean Chili Express. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).