Black Bean Parmesan Lasagna
Black Bean Parmesan Lasagna combines hearty black beans, melted cheeses, and flavorful tomatoes in a layered casserole. Its creamy, cheesy layers are complemented by a hint of spice from green chilies, making it a satisfying vegetarian dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook stewed tomatoes and sliced green onions in a saucepan uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Mash the cooked tomatoes and add drained black beans and picante sauce.
- Cook the mixture for 5 minutes; in a separate bowl, combine shredded Cheddar cheese, Ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Spread a scoop of the black bean sauce over the bottom of a 10 x 6-inch pan.
- Place two cooked lasagna noodles at the bottom of the pan; layer with one-third of the cheese mixture.
- Add two more noodles and continue layering, ending with the cheese mixture on top.
- Cover the pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour.
- Uncover and sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese and sliced green chilies cut into thin, long strips before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the black bean sauce. If you're short on time, you can substitute the homemade black bean sauce with a store-bought salsa. To enhance the flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated. This dish can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Black Bean Parmesan Lasagna with a side of mixed greens or a fresh avocado salad to balance the richness. For a complete meal, pair it with Mexican recipes like Tumbleweed's Queso for a delightful appetizer. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bean Parmesan Lasagna contains roughly 641 calories, with 41g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (82% of the Daily Value), calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 use different types of cheese in this lasagna?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or Pepper Jack for extra spice. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the lasagna.
Is it possible to make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Black Bean Parmesan Lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
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).