Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, the need for nutritious and satisfying meals has never been more essential. With the increasing awareness surrounding health and wellness, many home cooks are turning to wholesome ingredients that not only taste great but also pack a nutritional punch. Among these ingredients, quinoa and black beans have emerged as favorites, often celebrated for their versatility and health benefits. One delightful way to enjoy these superfoods is through the recipe for Cheesy Quinoa & Black Bean Delight. This dish is not only a feast for the senses with its vibrant flavors, but it also boasts a rich protein content that makes it a perfect option for a hearty weeknight dinner or a wholesome meal prep for healthy lunches.

One-Pan Cheesy Quinoa and Black Beans

Discover the joy of cooking with Cheesy Quinoa & Black Bean Delight, a nutritious and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep. This recipe elevates the wholesome flavors of quinoa and black beans with colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese, creating a satisfying dish that is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Whether for yourself or a crowd, it's an easy way to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (preferably low-sodium)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed well

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of red and yellow for vibrant colors)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to desired heat level)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.

    Add Vegetables and Spices: Incorporate the diced bell peppers and corn into the skillet. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well and cook for about 3–4 minutes, allowing the bell peppers to soften slightly.

      Incorporate Quinoa: Stir the rinsed quinoa into the skillet, ensuring it gets well combined with the vegetable and spice mixture.

        Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and has absorbed most of the liquid.

          Mix in Black Beans: After 15 minutes of simmering, gently fold in the drained black beans. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm the beans through and let the flavors meld.

            Cheesy Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the quinoa and bean mixture. Cover the skillet for a few minutes, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese beautifully.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, fluff the quinoa mixture gently with a fork. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the dish in individual bowls, topped with an additional sprinkle of cilantro and a lime wedge on each plate.