Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet: Joyful 400-Cal Meal

Name: Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 ½ cups frozen corn (or 1 15-ounce can, drained); 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro-Tel), undrained; 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot); 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend); Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, avocado, sour cream, lime juice

Jump to Recipe

If you need dinner on the table fast but don’t want to compromise on flavor, this Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet is about to be your new weeknight hero. It’s hearty, colorful, loaded with zesty Southwestern flavors, and ready in just 30 minutes – yes, really! We’re talking pantry staples, one skillet, and zero stress.

As a busy home cook, I live for recipes that let me skip the chaos and still serve up something delicious and nourishing. This one checks every box: fast, family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and absolutely addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet

This dish is a powerhouse of ease and flavor. Whether you’re short on time, cooking for picky eaters, or just craving something warm and comforting, here’s why this skillet deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

One pan wonder – Less mess, less cleanup.
Packed with protein and fiber thanks to the black beans and veggies.
Customizable heat – Go mild, medium, or spicy with your salsa and chilies.
Budget-friendly with accessible ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen.
Vegetarian and gluten-free, and no one will miss the meat.

Ingredients

You won’t need a trip to a specialty store – these are easy, flavorful ingredients you might already have on hand:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups frozen corn (or 1 can, drained)
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro-Tel), undrained
1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, avocado, sour cream, green onions, or lime juice

How to Make It

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. When hot, toss in the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are soft and the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Bloom the Spices

Add the garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Stir constantly for about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the spices smell amazing – it’s like waking up your dish with a shot of espresso!

Step 3: Add the Core Ingredients

Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), and salsa. Stir it all together until everything’s combined and happily mingling.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors get cozy. If it seems too soupy after simmering, just uncover and let it cook for a few extra minutes.

Step 5: Season and Cheese It Up

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Then sprinkle your cheese evenly over the top. Either cover the skillet to melt the cheese with residual heat, or pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes for that irresistible bubbly top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with cilantro, avocado, a squeeze of lime, or whatever your heart desires. Then, dig in!

Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet with diced tomatoes, corn, and herbs in a rustic black bowl — Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet served warm and hearty with fresh herbs on top

Chef Omar’s Pro Tips

Don’t skip blooming the spices! It’s the tiny step that packs major flavor.
Want extra heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or use spicy salsa.
Need more protein? Stir in cooked quinoa or top with a fried egg.
Meal prep dream: This keeps great in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.

This Skillet Has a Story

I first threw this dish together on a night when my fridge looked like a desert, and friends were en route. With just a can opener, a skillet, and a little kitchen magic, dinner was saved. The verdict? They went back for seconds and thirds. It’s been in the rotation ever since.

FAQs About Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely. Just drain it well and toss it in like you would frozen.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Totally! Cool it first, then freeze in portions. It reheats perfectly for a quick lunch or lazy dinner.

Can I make it vegan?

You bet! Just skip the cheese or use your favorite plant-based alternative.

What should I serve it with?

It’s great on its own, but it also shines over rice, tucked in tortillas, or topped with crushed tortilla chips.

The Skillet That Saves Dinner

This Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet isn’t just a recipe – it’s your weeknight secret weapon. Bold flavors, quick prep, and a cheesy finish make it a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or just need something cozy after a long day, this one-pan wonder has your back.

Your kitchen is about to smell like a Tex-Mex dream. So go ahead, grab that skillet – dinner’s just 30 minutes away!

More Meals You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

If this Fast Black Bean and Corn Skillet hit the spot, wait until you try a few more cozy, flavor-packed dishes from the kitchen. This one-pan Southwest Lentils and Rice Skillet brings the same warm spices and satisfying texture, while the Hearty Black Bean and Squash Stew is perfect for chilly evenings when you need something nourishing and rich. Craving a touch of smoky sweetness? These Cowboy Beans deliver big-time comfort. And for a true pantry classic that always satisfies, don’t miss this easy Black Beans and Rice. Want even more Southwestern inspiration? This Southwestern Corn and Black Bean Skillet from AllRecipes is another quick favorite worth adding to your list.