Black bean and potato skillet
Crisp-edged potatoes, black beans, and tomatoes make a filling meatless skillet from inexpensive everyday ingredients.
Original Helping Plate recipe · Independently written for this site. Cover image is an illustrative serving suggestion.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Makes
- 4 servings
- Budget note
- Often under $7
Directions
- 1
Start the potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large covered skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes, salt, and water. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring once, until the potatoes are nearly tender.
- 2
Brown the vegetables
Remove the lid. Add the remaining oil, onion, and optional bell pepper. Cook for 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes have browned edges and the onion is soft.
- 3
Season
Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir for 30 seconds so the spices coat the potatoes.
- 4
Add beans and tomatoes
Fold in the black beans and drained tomatoes. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring gently, until everything is hot.
- 5
Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve on its own or with tortillas, rice, eggs, or a spoonful of yogurt if available.
Make it work with what you have
Use sweet potatoes, canned corn, kidney beans, or any bell pepper. A spoonful of salsa can replace the tomatoes and some seasoning.
Simple and filling
Potatoes provide a satisfying base while black beans add protein and fiber. Cooking the potatoes covered first makes the skillet faster without a separate pot.
Storage
Refrigerate in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 4 days. Reheat to 165°F in a skillet or microwave.
Stretch this meal further
These are Helping Plate’s practical additions for shopping carefully and cooking with food-distribution staples.
- Cut the potatoes into small, even pieces so they soften at the same time.
- Let the potatoes sit against the pan for a minute between turns to develop browned edges.
- Stretch the skillet with tortillas, rice, or eggs when feeding more people.
Equipment
Large skillet with lid · Knife and cutting board · Can opener · Spatula
Cuisine
Southwestern-inspired
Dietary notes
Vegan · Dairy-free · Egg-free · Gluten-free
Check for allergens
Check canned ingredients and chili powder blends for unexpected additives
