Don’t Sleep on Beans: The Pantry Staple Doing the Most
Beans might not be the flashiest ingredient, but with their plant protein, soluble fiber, and versatility, they’re worth making a pantry staple. And if you’re looking for budget-friendly dinners? Well, beans are the BEST!
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Easy bean recipes to please every palate!
I started Well Plated when Ben and I were on a newlywed budget, so canned beans were always in the pantry. And all these years later, if you hand me a can of black beans or pintos, I could rattle off dozens of potential dinner options for it.
Beans aren’t just budget-friendly though. They’re a great plant-based protein, they can be used in so many different recipes, they’ve got a mild flavor that makes them a hit with just about everyone, and because they’re in a can, you don’t have to stress about using them before they go bad.
As if that’s not enough of a selling point, they’re already cooked, so they make dinner easier too!
Don’t Sleep on Dried Beans Either
While the focus of this post is canned beans, dried beans are even more affordable—but they do take a bit more time and planning.
That said, I really do like the flavor and texture of dried beans, so I make them when I’ve got them time. I usually make a big batch of Crock Pot Pinto Beans, Instant Pot Black Beans, or Instant Pot Refried Beans and use them throughout the week.
About 1 1/2 cups of cooked dried beans equal 1 standard can of beans.
7 Satisfying Recipes That Start With a Can of Beans
Cuban Black Beans and Rice with Roasted Peppers and Plantains
This Cuban Black Beans and Rice is a great example of how a few pantry staples can turn into a complete meal.
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15 Bean Soup
Hearty and full of flavor, this 15 Bean Soup is the kind of meal that feels substantial without being complicated.
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Vegetarian Chili With Sweet Potatoes
This Vegetarian Chili is rich, filling, and packed with beans. It’s a go-to when you want something cozy that still feels balanced.
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One Pan Broccoli Quinoa Skillet with Parmesan and White Beans
A simple skillet meal where beans help round everything out, this Broccoli Quinoa Skillet is easy and satisfying.
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Pasta e Fagioli
This Pasta e Fagioli combines beans, pasta, and broth into a comforting, everyday meal that works any night of the week.
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Chili Mac and Cheese
A comfort food mash-up that leans on beans for substance. Chili Mac and Cheese is hearty, filling, and easy to make.
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Cowboy Chicken Recipe
This Cowboy Chicken brings together beans, chicken, and bold flavors in a way that feels both simple and satisfying.
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