Description

This Black Bean Grilled Cheese recipe combines the creaminess of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese with a savory, spiced black bean filling, all sandwiched between buttery toasted bread. It’s a hearty, flavorful twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner.

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 aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare black bean mixture: Stir in drained black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, mashing some beans gently with the back of a spoon to create a chunky filling.
Finish filling: Remove skillet from heat. Incorporate chopped cilantro and lime juice into the bean mixture. Set aside to cool slightly.
Assemble sandwiches: Lay out bread slices on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. Flip half of the slices so the buttered side faces down. Evenly distribute the black bean filling over these slices, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover with remaining slices, buttered side up.
Grill sandwiches: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts thoroughly.
Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet, slice them in half if desired, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use a sturdy bread like whole wheat or sourdough to hold up to the bean filling without becoming soggy.
For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can substitute vegan cheese and plant-based butter to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Pressing the sandwich gently while grilling helps the cheese melt evenly and ensures the sandwich is compact.
Leftover black bean mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: black bean grilled cheese, vegetarian grilled cheese, easy lunch recipes, black bean sandwich, cheesy bean sandwich