Transform A Boring Can Of Beans Into A Full Enchilada-Inspired Meal

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Canned beans are a convenient source of fiber and protein with many creative culinary applications. Though on their own, the legumes are rather unremarkable, you can easily transform your preferred brand of canned beans into a filling and fulfilling meal. For an easy enchilada dinner, grab your skillet and combine canned black beans with peppers, onions, corn, shredded cheese, and strips of corn tortillas.

Rather than spend the time and effort to roll up enchiladas individually, this method offers a deconstructed format. It's especially effective, as you can use a single skillet. Start by draining and rinsing your canned black beans. Sauté your aromatics and stir in any peppers or other veggies along with the beans. Then add your choice of seasonings, canned enchilada sauce, tortilla strips, and cheese, letting everything mix together.

Once the cheese has melted, add any garnishes on top such as cilantro, radishes, or sour cream. This enchilada skillet is low effort, vegetarian-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Take a cue from Tasting Table's roasted vegetable and black bean enchiladas recipe and transform it into a single-skillet dinner.

While canned black beans are key to this enchilada skillet, you can also try a tri-color bean blend, like the Great Value Organic Tri-Color Bean Blend, which includes kidney beans and pinto beans to add variety to the dish's taste and texture. Skip the cheese topping and stir in blended canned white beans for a creamy addition to your skillet that's dairy-free.

Get inspired by Tasting Table's turkey enchilada skillet recipe and give the enchilada skillet a protein upgrade. This is also a great way to use up leftover meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Alternatively, there are plenty of plant-based protein options to include in your dish. Add extra heat with a portion of hot sauce mixed in or crushed chili flakes. Use a dollop of sour cream on top to temper this spice or try plain Greek yogurt for better nutritional value.

Serve your canned bean enchilada skillet on its own or alongside cauliflower rice or regular rice. Instead of adding tortilla strips into the mix, use tortilla chips to scoop up the contents of your enchilada skillet for a hearty chip-and-dip style meal. Simple and effective, this skillet will soon join your regular meal rotation as a dinnertime staple.