Description
A hearty and flavorful Black Bean Grilled Cheese sandwich that combines the creaminess of melted cheddar cheese with a spiced black bean filling. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner, featuring a blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and fresh cilantro for a smoky, zesty twist on a classic grilled cheese.
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 onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook black beans and spices: 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 mixture.
- Finish filling: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare bread: Lay out bread slices. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. Flip half of the slices so the buttered side faces down on the cutting surface.
- Assemble sandwiches: Evenly spread the black bean filling on the unbuttered side of the flipped bread slices, then top with shredded cheese. Cover with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill sandwiches: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Using whole wheat bread adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- For a spicier sandwich, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the black bean mixture.
- You can substitute cheddar or Monterey Jack with your preferred melting cheese.
- To make it vegan, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based butter alternative.
- Make sure to press the sandwich gently while grilling to ensure even browning and melting.
