When comfort food meets wholesome ingredients, you get something that’s not only satisfying but seriously crave-worthy. This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole is that dish.
It’s smoky, cheesy, hearty, and just happens to be meatless—though no one at the table will notice. With layers of roasted sweet potatoes, spiced black beans, gooey cheese, and a kick of chipotle, this casserole is a one-pan wonder that brings bold flavor to every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just trying to win dinner tonight, this recipe delivers. It’s cozy enough for fall, light enough for spring, and customizable year-round. Trust us—this isn’t your average “healthy casserole.” It’s a full-on flavor bomb.
Ingredients for Six People
For the roasted sweet potatoes:
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained slightly
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, minced (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can of chipotles)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for topping)
- Juice of 1 lime
For layering & topping:
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- ⅓ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional, for serving)
- Tortilla chips or warm tortillas (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and starting to brown.
Set aside once done and reduce oven temperature to 375°F.
2. Make the Black Bean Filling
While the sweet potatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, cumin, and oregano. Stir to combine and simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to slightly thicken. Turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the roasted sweet potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the black bean mixture and a layer of the shredded cheeses. Repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes, black bean filling, and cheese.
4. Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly around the edges.
For an extra golden top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
How to Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced avocado, and tortilla chips or warm tortillas on the side for scooping.
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs well with a side of lime-dressed slaw or a crisp green salad.
Make It Yours: Customization Tips
- Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese and add a drizzle of cashew cream or avocado sauce.
- Add grains: Stir in 1 cup of cooked quinoa or rice to the bean mixture for an even heartier meal.
- Boost the veggies: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or corn to the filling for extra color and nutrients.
- Turn up the heat: Add extra chipotle, jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring on the spice.
Why You’ll Love It
This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole hits all the right notes—sweet, smoky, spicy, cheesy, and filling. It’s a complete meal in one pan, loaded with fiber, protein, and flavor. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep, and it’s one of those rare dishes that pleases vegetarians, omnivores, and picky eaters alike.
Plus, it’s proof that comfort food can be colorful, creative, and nourishing all at once.
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