Black Bean Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
This Black Bean Grilled Cheese is a delicious and hearty twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Packed with a flavorful black bean mixture seasoned with cumin, smoked paprika, and a hint of lime, it offers a satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. The melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese complements the smoky, savory beans, all grilled to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Black Bean Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Sandwich
- 8 slices sandwich bread (whole wheat or white)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Black Bean Mixture: Stir in the drained black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, gently mashing some of the beans with the back of a spoon to create a textured filling.
- Add Cilantro and Lime: Remove the skillet from heat. Mix in the chopped cilantro and lime juice into the black bean mixture. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Lay out the bread slices and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. Flip half the slices so the buttered side faces down. On these slices, evenly spread the black bean mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes per side while pressing lightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the pan, slice in half, and serve warm for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use whole wheat bread for a healthier option.
- Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference or omit for a milder taste.
- Substitute cheddar or Monterey Jack with vegan cheese for a dairy-free variant.
- To make cleanup easier, use a non-stick skillet or a griddle with a non-stick surface.
- Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keywords: black bean grilled cheese, vegetarian sandwich, black bean sandwich, grilled cheese recipe, quick lunch, easy dinner