Bean Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Bean Casserole Recipe is just what you need if you’re looking for a simple, cheesy, and protein-packed dinner! With a crunchy tortilla chip topping, this dish is packed with rich Tex-Mex flavors and is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you serve it as a side for tacos or enjoy it as a meatless main dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

✔ Loaded with Flavor : Savory beans, vegetables, and spices create a delicious taste.
✔ Cheesy & Crunchy : Crispy tortilla chips cover a melty cheese layer.
✔ Meatless & Protein-Packed : Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a hearty meal.
✔ Quick & Easy : Made with pantry staples and ready in just 40 minutes.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep : Reheats beautifully and stays fresh for days.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• Kidney Beans (Canned, Drained & Rinsed) : A great source of protein and fiber.
• Black Beans (Canned, Drained & Rinsed) : Adds rich texture and taste.
• Diced Tomatoes (With Juice) : Helps create a flavorful sauce.
• Diced Onion : Adds a savory base.
• Minced Garlic : Gives a bold, fragrant kick.
• Corn Kernels (Fresh or Frozen) : Adds natural sweetness and texture.
• Diced Bell Peppers : Provides a pop of color and flavor.
• Smoked Paprika : Adds a warm, smoky depth.
• Ground Cumin : Delivers that classic Tex-Mex taste.
• Chili Powder : Gives a mild kick of heat.
• Salt & Black Pepper : Enhances all the flavors.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Mexican Blend) : A gooey, melty layer that binds everything together.

For the Topping:

• Crushed Tortilla Chips (or Breadcrumbs) : Adds crunch and texture.
• Extra Shredded Cheese : For a cheesy, golden finish.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro : A fresh, herby garnish.

👉 The complete ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a skillet over medium heat, warm a little oil.
2. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mix together:
   • Cooked onions and garlic
   • Kidney beans & black beans
   • Diced tomatoes (with juice)
   • Corn & bell peppers
   • Smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper
2. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
3. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until bubbling.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

1. Remove from the oven.
2. Sprinkle on:
   • Crushed tortilla chips
   • Extra ½ cup of shredded cheese
3. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
3. Dig in and enjoy! 😋

For more baked dishes like this, you might find inspiration in this baked beans recipe.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Bean Casserole

✔ Use Freshly Grated Cheese : It melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese.
✔ Want More Heat? Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños.
✔ For a Creamier Casserole Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking.
✔ Make It a Full Meal : Serve with a side salad, rice, or avocado.
✔ Add Some Protein : Toss in cooked ground turkey, beef, or shredded chicken.

How to Serve

This cheesy bean casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• 🌮 Tacos or Burritos : Use as a flavor-packed filling.
• 🥑 Guacamole or Avocado Slices : For extra creaminess.
• 🍚 Rice or Quinoa : Turns it into a complete meal.
• 🌽 Tortillas or Cornbread : Perfect for scooping up all the cheesy goodness.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing

• Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as needed.

For instance, pairing your casserole with a refreshing salad, like those featured in healthy baking recipes, can round out your meal.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?

Yes! Soak ½ cup of dried beans overnight, then boil until tender before using.

2. What’s the Best Cheese for This Dish?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt best.

3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole without baking, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

4. How Can I Make This Casserole Vegan?

Simply use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether. You can also add nutritional yeast for extra flavor!

Conclusion

Warm, cozy, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, this cheesy bean casserole is perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a comforting weeknight dinner.

😋 Grab a spoon and dig into this cheesy, hearty delight! 😉

Cheesy Bean Casserole

Meriam

Rich and comforting bean casserole with a cheesy, savory topping, perfect for a hearty meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Comfort Food, Mexican-Inspired

Servings 6 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish
• Oven

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole

• 2 cans kidney beans 15 oz each, drained and rinsed
• 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes 15 oz, with juice
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend

For the Topping

• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese for extra cheesiness
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions, beans, diced tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Transfer mixture into the baking dish, top with 1 cup shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
• Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips and an extra ½ cup of cheese over the casserole.
• Return to oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and enjoy warm!

Notes

For added protein, mix in cooked ground beef or shredded chicken before baking. Serve with sour cream or avocado for extra flavor.

Keyword Beans, Casserole, Cheesy