40 of the Best Recipes Using Black Beans

Over 30 of the BEST black bean recipes that are the perfect way to use up dry or canned black beans. You’ll find black bean burger recipes, hearty salads, chilis, appetizers and even desserts that are packed with fiber and protein thanks to black beans. This post is in partnership with USA Pulses.

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black bean sweet potato taco bowl topped with avocado

Over the past few months, we’ve been celebrating pantry staples and sharing a few of our favorite ways to use them. (Remember my chickpea round up?)

Today we’re talking all about those glorious black beans. I’ve been cooking with black beans ever since I can remember. My mom used to add black beans, chickpeas and other types of beans to her famous Puerto Rican recipes, which always inspired me to experiment with different types of beans.

Did you know that black beans are in the “pulses” family? Today I’m partnering up with USA Pulses to show some amazing ways to use black beans and to share all of the great ways to incorporate pulses into some of my favorite healthy staple recipes — from salads and soups to breakfast and even dessert!

What are pulses?

Pulses are dry peas, chickpeas, lentils and beans (like black beans!) They’re an amazing source of plant-based protein and fiber, and are extremely versatile for sweet and savory recipes. I especially love them because they’re shelf-stable and super nutritious — truly a pantry essential all year round.

Benefits of cooking with pulses

Low cost: a can of beans, chickpeas or lentils is usually under $2!
Packed with nutrients: one serving of black beans has 7g of protein and 6g of fiber.
Versatile: while there are plenty of savory lunch & dinner recipes that you can dream up using pulses, they’re also a great ingredient to bake with to make sweet treats.

Head to www.pulses.org for even more info, tips & tricks for cooking with pulses!

Black bean recipes for every meal

These healthy black bean recipes have tons of flavor and nutrients. I included a mix of sweet and savory recipes, plus plenty of gluten free and vegan black bean recipes. You’ll find burgers, enchiladas, chilis, salads, fun appetizers, breakfast ideas and even brownies! There’s truly a black bean recipe for every meal.

I hope you love these healthy black bean recipes! If you make any of them, be sure to head to the recipe to leave a comment and a rating. I really appreciate it — xo!