There’s always a can of beans lurking in the back of your pantry, just waiting for its moment. And that moment is now. Whether you’re running low on ingredients, too tired to go grocery shopping, or just want something simple, beans are here to save the day. We’ve rounded up a bunch of easy recipes that turn those humble beans into something way more exciting than you’d expect.
Smashed White Bean Quesadillas
These smashed white bean and kale quesadillas are a hearty, meatless option. Melted cheddar pairs perfectly with a creamy BBQ sauce, making this a quick, comforting dinner using a can of beans to add extra protein.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean Quesadillas
Blueberry White Bean Salad
A simple white bean salad tossed with fresh blueberries, basil, and mint, all coated in a creamy tahini turmeric dressing. Crunchy seeds and pickled red onions make this a light, nutritious meal that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry White Bean Salad
Mango Black Bean Salad
This mango black bean salad comes together quickly for a light lunch or a side dish. Black beans provide a filling, protein-packed base, while the fresh mango adds a refreshing touch.
Get the Recipe: Mango Black Bean Salad
Escarole and Beans
A traditional Italian dish that combines escarole and beans for a comforting and simple vegetarian meal. The beans bring heartiness, while the escarole adds balance, making this a great dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Escarole and Beans
Vegetable Bean Skillet
Fresh vegetables and two types of beans make this skillet a versatile meatless meal. Quick to put together and loaded with plant-based protein, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Bean Skillet
Dandelion Greens and Beans
Sautéed dandelion greens and a mix of cannellini and kidney beans come together in under 30 minutes. This simple dish is packed with protein and greens for a nutritious, fast dinner.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Greens and Beans
Creamy Carrot Fennel Soup
Cannellini beans make this creamy carrot and fennel soup both filling and light, perfect for a springtime dinner. Ready in under an hour, it’s a great way to use pantry staples like beans.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Carrot Fennel Soup
Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
A creamy twist on chili with white beans, chicken, cheddar, and a hint of sweetness from apples. This non-traditional chili is perfect for cooler months and brings all the flavors together in one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
This spicy turkey chili is hearty, with a creamy texture from hummus and a protein boost from beans. A great one-pot dinner for colder days that’s both easy and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Thai Red Curry Soup
Ready in just 25 minutes, this red curry Thai noodle soup combines chickpeas for added protein and is easily adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. A quick and flavorful meal that beats takeout.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Soup
Chickpea Pesto Sandwich
Smashed chickpeas form the base of this non-traditional pesto sandwich filling. It’s an easy, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick vegetarian lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Pesto Sandwich
Creamy Turmeric Chicken with Chickpeas
A simple one-skillet meal that pairs chickpeas with turmeric chicken for a hearty, satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turmeric Chicken with Chickpeas
Kung Pao Chickpeas
A vegan take on Kung Pao, this dish swaps in chickpeas for a protein-packed dinner that’s big on flavor. The bold sauce gives you all the satisfaction of takeout in a healthier, homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas
BBQ Black Bean & Chicken Tortilla Pizza
A fun twist on a quesadilla, this tortilla pizza layers creamy black beans, shredded chicken, and plenty of cheese. Perfect for a quick weekend meal when you want something easy and filling.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Black Bean & Chicken Tortilla Pizza
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole
A cheesy ground beef casserole that’s loaded with tomatoes, peppers, and black beans. With cauliflower rice as a base, this 40-minute dish is a weeknight win that’s both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Casserole