Spicy Black Bean Sloppy Joes with Cheddar
Indulge in a deliciously hearty twist on the classic Sloppy Joe with our Spicy Black Bean Sloppy Joes with Cheddar! This vegetarian delight features protein-packed black beans simmered in zesty salsa and a blend of savory spices. Each mouthful is a burst of flavor, perfectly complemented by melty cheddar cheese on a whole grain bun. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these Sloppy Joes are not just tasty but also nutritious, making them a winner for families and health-conscious eaters alike. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this one-dish meal will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 teaspoons (for sautéing)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
black beans
15 ounces (rinsed and drained)
salsa
15 ounces
brown sugar
1 tablespoon
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon
cumin
1/2 teaspoon
salt
1/4 teaspoon
whole grain buns
4
cheddar cheese
4 slices (for topping)
Instructions
1
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3
Add the rinsed and drained black beans to the pan along with the salsa, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, cumin, and salt.
4
Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a light simmer.
5
Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the mixture thickens slightly.
6
While the mixture simmers, you can toast the whole grain buns if you prefer them crispy.
7
Once the black bean mixture is ready, remove it from the heat.
8
Spoon a generous amount of the black bean mixture onto each bun, top with a slice of cheddar cheese, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Black Bean Sloppy Joes with Cheddar?
They are a nutritious and vegetarian twist on the traditional Sloppy Joe, featuring black beans simmered with salsa and spices, served on a whole grain bun with melted cheddar cheese.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it uses black beans as the protein source. However, check that your Worcestershire sauce is a vegetarian version, as some brands contain anchovies.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, use a vegan Worcestershire sauce, swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative, and ensure your buns are vegan-friendly.
What kind of salsa works best?
A chunky tomato-based salsa works best. You can choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your spice preference.
How long does it take to prepare the filling?
The filling takes about 1 minute to sauté the garlic and approximately 10 minutes to simmer, for a total cooking time of around 11-12 minutes.
Do I need to rinse the black beans?
Yes, the recipe recommends rinsing and draining the canned black beans before adding them to the skillet.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use about 1.5 to 2 cups of home-cooked black beans in place of one 15-ounce can.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar, or omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is moderate but largely depends on the heat level of the salsa you choose.
Can I freeze the black bean mixture?
Yes, the cooked mixture can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Why use whole grain buns?
Whole grain buns are recommended to increase the fiber content and provide a heartier texture that holds up well to the moist filling.
Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or corn can be sautéed along with the garlic for added nutrition and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free buns and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the black bean mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.
What is a good substitute for Dijon mustard?
Yellow mustard or a half-teaspoon of dry mustard powder can be used as a substitute for Dijon.
What other cheeses pair well with this?
Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for extra heat, or even a smoked gouda would be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
Is the garlic sautéing step necessary?
Sautéing the minced garlic first helps to mellow its flavor and release aromatic oils, preventing a harsh raw garlic taste in the final dish.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all filling ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours.
Is this a healthy meal?
Yes, it is high in fiber, provides plant-based protein, and uses healthy fats like olive oil.
Can I use white beans instead of black beans?
Yes, cannellini or Great Northern beans can be used, although the flavor profile will be slightly milder.
What sides go well with these Sloppy Joes?
They pair perfectly with a fresh side salad, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw.
Can I omit the salt?
Yes, since canned beans and salsa often contain sodium, you can reduce or omit the added salt to suit your dietary needs.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Toasting the buns before adding the filling creates a crisp surface that prevents the liquid from soaking in too quickly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales up very easily for larger families or meal prepping.
What flavor does cumin add?
Cumin adds an earthy, warm, and slightly smoky depth that complements the black beans and salsa.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of salsa?
You can, but you will need to add extra spices, onion, and a bit of acidity like lime juice to mimic the complexity of salsa.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, most children enjoy the flavor profile, especially if a mild salsa is used.
What if the mixture is too thin?
If it is too runny, simmer it for a few more minutes uncovered, or mash a few of the beans to help thicken the sauce.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh cloves are not available.