Name: One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 1 cup salsa; 2 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 ¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 green onions, sliced; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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The aroma of the One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet wafts through the kitchen, inviting you to explore its vibrant colors and tantalizing textures. Picture yourself stirring a savory mix of black beans, sweet potatoes, and zesty salsa, all bubbling away in a single skillet, with melted cheddar cheese waiting to crown your masterpiece. Isn’t it magical how a simple collection of ingredients can transform into something so heartwarming? Each bite bursts with flavor, and your taste buds dance to the rhythm of chili powder and lime—a celebration that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet

I remember the first time I made this dish. It was a chilly evening, and my family gathered around the table, hungry after a long day. I quickly whipped up this delicious One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet, and within 25 minutes, we were sharing hearty laughter and stories while savoring every spoonful. This meal captures that same spirit of togetherness and joy, making dinners not just about eating but about connecting over good food. So grab your skillet, and let’s create something wonderful together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of black beans, sweet potatoes, and zesty salsa creates a satisfying taste explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With its vibrant colors, it’s as fun to look at as it is to eat!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a main dish, or serve it alongside some tortilla chips or a crisp salad.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for vegetarian and gluten-free diets—just swap in veggie broth and omit the cheese if you like.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: This is the base of your skillet, providing a hearty and filling component. You can use brown rice for added nutrition, but be mindful that cooking times will vary.
1 cup salsa: Opt for your favorite salsa, whether mild or spicy, to infuse the dish with flavor. If you don’t have salsa, diced tomatoes mixed with spices can work well as an alternative.
2 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced: Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness and creaminess to the dish. You can substitute with regular potatoes or butternut squash if needed.
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Canned black beans are convenient and full of protein. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using pinto beans instead for a different flavor.
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained: These add a lovely heat and depth to the dish. If you want less spice, mild green chiles or even bell pepper can be substituted.
1 tablespoon chili powder: This spice is essential for that Southwest flair. Adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
1 ¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Broth is key for cooking the rice and vegetables. Vegetable broth makes the dish vegetarian-friendly if you prefer!
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Nothing beats the creamy goodness of melted cheese on top. Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.
2 green onions, sliced: They add a fresh crunch and a pop of color just before serving. You could use chives or regular onions if that’s what you have!
Juice of 1 lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the entire dish. If unavailable, a splash of vinegar works as a substitute, though the flavor profile shifts.
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: Adding freshness and flavor, cilantro brightens every bite. For a non-cilantro fan, parsley works as a great alternative.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: A must for seasoning to ensure all flavors shine.

How to Make One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet

Combine Ingredients: In a large skillet, combine the uncooked rice, salsa, diced sweet potatoes, rinsed black beans, and undrained green chiles. Sprinkle in the chili powder and pour the broth over everything. Stir gently to combine all those lovely flavors, ensuring the rice is well-distributed among the veggies and beans.

Bring to a Boil: Cover the skillet and place it over high heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. This is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing! Once it reaches a rolling boil, quickly reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer. Keep the lid on for about 15 minutes while the rice cooks and absorbs all those fantastic flavors.

Rest and Fluff: After 15 minutes of simmering, remove the skillet from heat but leave it covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step is critical for the rice to finish cooking through steam. Once that time is up, uncover the skillet and fluff the mixture with a fork, revealing the beautifully cooked rice and tender sweet potatoes. Squeeze in the lime juice and add the sliced green onions, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Melt Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hot skillet mixture. Cover again for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into gooey delight. This is where the magic happens! The melted cheese not only adds richness but also binds the dish together beautifully.

Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle with fresh cilantro for that extra burst of flavor and color. Serve the One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet hot, and relish each comforting bite, knowing you’ve created a delightful meal in under 30 minutes!

Storing & Reheating

You can store any leftovers of your One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to divide it into manageable portions. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave for about 2–3 minutes or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to refresh the flavors and prevent drying out.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure your rice is well-coated with the salsa and broth for even cooking.
If you like your sweet potatoes extra tender, you can steam or microwave them briefly before adding them to the skillet.
Timing is key—keep an eye on the simmer to prevent overcooking. The skillet should be bubbling gently, not boiling furiously.
Try variations: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein or toss in some spinach for greens.
For a smoky twist, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or Mexican spices to elevate the flavor profile.
Feel free to make the dish ahead of time and let the flavors develop overnight in the refrigerator.

Imagine a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart—the One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet is just that. It’s quick and easy, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or even casual get-togethers with friends. The combination of taste, simplicity, and comfort invites creativity, encouraging you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or mix in your own favorite bits, you’re bound to enjoy every mouthful.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook. You might also need to add a bit more broth for moisture. Just start checking it around the 30-minute mark.

Is this dish spicy?

The One-Pot Southwest Black Bean Skillet can be adjusted to your spice level by choosing mild or hot salsa and the type of green chiles you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, go for mild options, and you can even leave out the chili powder.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

What can I serve with this dish?

While the skillet is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance your dinner with sides like a fresh green salad, corn on the cob, or crispy tortilla chips. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can also be delightful if you’re not following a dairy-free diet.