If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting one-pan meal that bursts with flavor and color, look no further than this Southwest Black Bean Skillet. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that seamlessly combines tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, zesty salsa, and fluffy rice, all laced with smoky chili powder and topped with melty cheddar cheese. This dish is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, delivering satisfying warmth and fresh, lively notes with every bite.

Southwest Black Bean Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is key to making your Southwest Black Bean Skillet truly shine. Each component brings its own unique texture and flavor, ensuring a balanced and colorful meal that’s as delicious as it is inviting.

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: The base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors while keeping things light and fluffy.
1 cup salsa: Adds a tangy, mildly spicy kick that wakes up the palate and blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
2 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced: Provides a natural sweetness and a hearty texture that makes each bite satisfying.
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: A protein-packed staple that brings earthiness and a lovely creamy bite to the skillet.
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained: A gentle heat with a subtle smokiness to elevate the dish without overpowering it.
1 tablespoon chili powder: Key spice for a classic Southwest flavor profile that ties everything together perfectly.
1 ¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Essential for cooking the rice and infusing the dish with depth.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, savory goodness on top, adding richness and an irresistible finish.
2 green onions, sliced: Fresh, mild onion flavor that adds brightness and a bit of crunch.
Juice of 1 lime: A splash of acidity that wakes up the dish, balancing its richness with zesty freshness.
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous lift and a pop of vibrant green color.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: To season and enhance all the natural flavors.

How to Make Southwest Black Bean Skillet

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by placing the rice, salsa, diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced green chiles with their juices, chili powder, and broth straight into a large skillet. This is where the magic begins, and it’s a total one-pan wonder that saves you time and clean-up.

Step 2: Simmer

Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 15 minutes. This slow cooking allows the rice and sweet potatoes to absorb all those zesty, smoky flavors, making the dish hearty yet light.

Step 3: Rest and Fluff

After simmering, remove the skillet from the heat but keep it covered for 5 minutes to let the steam finish cooking the rice perfectly. Then uncover and fluff the mixture with a fork, stirring in freshly squeezed lime juice and the sliced green onions. Season well with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get that perfect balance.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet again, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts deliciously, creating a melty, savory blanket over the colorful filling.

Step 5: Serve

Your Southwest Black Bean Skillet is now ready to be enjoyed straight from the pan! The combination of warm, cheesy goodness with fresh herbs and bold flavors is incredibly satisfying and comforting.

How to Serve Southwest Black Bean Skillet

Garnishes

Adding just a few simple garnishes can take your Southwest Black Bean Skillet to the next level. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro right before serving for a burst of herbal brightness. You might also consider a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado to introduce creamy, cooling contrasts that complement the spicy undertones beautifully.

Side Dishes

This skillet shines as a hearty main dish, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted corn on the cob can make your meal feel even more festive and complete. For an extra touch of Southwest flair, a side of warm corn tortillas or baked tortilla chips offers a crunchy texture that’s perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Southwest Black Bean Skillet over a bed of leafy greens or mix in some cooked quinoa instead of rice for added protein and texture. You can even turn it into a filling for stuffed bell peppers, baking them until tender and topped with melted cheese for an impressive presentation that’s just as comforting and tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the next-day meal just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

This Southwest Black Bean Skillet freezes very well, too. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, a microwave works great for a quick warm-up, just cover the dish to trap steam and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add extra fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind it takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to simmer the skillet a bit longer and possibly add more broth to get the right tenderness.

Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

It’s vegetarian if you use vegetable broth, and with a simple swap of the cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese alternative, it can easily be made vegan without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How spicy is the Southwest Black Bean Skillet?

The heat level is mild to moderate, thanks to the chili powder and green chiles, making it approachable for most palates. You can adjust the chili powder or add fresh jalapeños if you like things hotter!

Can I add meat to this skillet?

Definitely! Ground beef, turkey, or shredded chicken can be added for extra protein. Brown the meat first, then incorporate it during the initial mixing step with the other ingredients.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out?

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, stirring gently to keep the rice moist and prevent sticking. Covering the skillet during reheating helps trap steam and keeps the cheese melty.

Final Thoughts

This Southwest Black Bean Skillet is the kind of dish that feels like a warm invitation to a cozy, flavorful meal shared among friends or family. It’s simple to make, nourishing, colorful, and endlessly customizable. If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you to give this vibrant skillet a spot in your weekly dinner lineup—you’ll be wondering how you ever lived without it!