Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake

Looking for a hearty and flavorful breakfast that’s perfect for lazy weekends or cozy breakfast-for-dinner nights? Look no further than this mouthwatering Black Bean Egg Bake recipe. With saucy beans, juicy tomatoes, and eggs with perfectly jammy centers all cooked together in one skillet, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

The beauty of this Black Bean Egg Bake goes beyond its delicious taste—it’s a one-pan wonder that transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven, making cleanup a breeze. The rich and tasty bean-tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the eggs, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that keeps everyone gathered around the table a little while longer.

Customize this versatile dish to suit your taste preferences by adding jalapeños for extra heat, switching up the cheese, or mixing in ingredients like chorizo or spinach. Whether you top it with avocado, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce, this Black Bean Egg Bake is all about making it your own. So, gather your loved ones, grab some tortillas, and enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to bring everyone together.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient one-pan recipe for easy cleanup
• Rich and flavorful sauce from beans and tomatoes
• Versatile – easily customizable with different cheeses, proteins, and spices
• Make-ahead friendly for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners

Why You’ll Love This Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleaning by making this delicious dish in just one pan from stovetop to oven.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy this Black Bean Egg Bake for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dinner. It’s perfect for breakfast-for-dinner nights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of saucy beans, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked eggs creates a rich and flavorful dish that will leave you wanting more.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, hot sauce, or pickled onions to customize this dish to your liking.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the bean-tomato base in advance for even more flavorful results. Just reheat, add fresh eggs, and bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Endless Variations: Mix and match ingredients like different cheeses, chorizo, spinach, or spices to create your own unique version of this dish.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults. Let everyone customize their serving with their favorite toppings and flavors.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Keep your guests lingering at the table by serving this flavorful dish with tortillas and a side salad for a casual and cozy meal.

Ingredients for Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake

• 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced petite tomatoes.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste.
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese.
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder.
• 4 large eggs.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt.
• 1 can (4 oz) green chiles, diced.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed.
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped cilantro.
• 8 tortillas (to serve).

Pro Tips for Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake

For a perfect Black Bean Egg Bake every time, make sure to keep an eye on the eggs near the end of the cooking process to prevent them from overcooking. Remember, those jammy centers are what make this dish delicious. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to suit your taste buds.

Utilize a cast-iron skillet for this recipe to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven, reducing the number of dishes to clean up afterwards. To enhance the flavors, consider preparing the bean-tomato base a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Don’t hesitate to customize this dish by experimenting with different cheeses, adding in ingredients like cooked chorizo, spinach, or varying spices to suit your preferences.

How to Make Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 2: Cook Base

Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil in a pan for approximately 8 minutes until they are lightly browned.

Step 3: Add Sauce

Combine tomato paste, spices, chiles, beans, and diced tomatoes. Simmer.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Create indentations in the mixture and gently crack eggs into each one.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until eggs are cooked with firm whites and soft yolks.

Step 6: Finish

Sprinkle with cilantro and cheese, and serve with warm tortillas immediately.

Storage Tips

To store the Black Bean Egg Bake, let it cool to room temperature before transferring any leftovers to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for the best quality. It is recommended to reheat the dish in a preheated oven or microwave, ensuring the eggs are thoroughly heated before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Black Bean Egg Bake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or placing it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen leftovers can last for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven until it is heated through. Keep in mind that the texture of the eggs may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cotija cheese on hand, you can easily substitute it with crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a similar salty kick and creamy texture. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can also be used as a replacement, adding a melty, gooey element to the dish.

To make this recipe vegetarian or to switch up the flavor profile, consider swapping the black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas. Each of these alternatives will bring a slightly different taste and texture to the dish while still providing a hearty and satisfying protein source. Additionally, if you prefer a milder spice level, you can reduce or omit the chili powder and green chiles, or replace them with a milder spice like smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, set up a DIY Black Bean Egg Bake Taco Bar! Provide a spread of warm tortillas, sliced avocado, sour cream, lime wedges, pickled onions, and hot sauce for your guests to customize their own tacos. Let them top their tacos with their favorite ingredients to create a personalized flavor explosion.

To elevate the Black Bean Egg Bake, try serving it in individual cast iron skillets or ramekins for a charming presentation. Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey, melty finish. Garnish with a dollop of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness. This individualized approach adds a touch of elegance to the dish and makes it perfect for a cozy brunch gathering or a casual dinner party.

FAQs for Protein-Packed Black Bean Egg Bake

Can I make this Black Bean Egg Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bean-tomato base a day or two early and reheat it when ready to eat. However, it’s best to crack in fresh eggs and bake them just before serving for the best texture.

What are some suggested variations for this recipe?

You can switch the cheese to cheddar or Monterey Jack, add cooked chorizo or spinach to the sauce, or mix in ground coriander or smoky paprika for more flavor. You can also squeeze fresh lime juice on top or customize it with your favorite toppings.

Can I use a different type of pan instead of cast iron?

While cast iron works well for this recipe because it can easily go from stovetop to oven, you can use an oven-safe skillet or baking dish as an alternative. Just ensure it can withstand the oven temperature and is safe to use on the stovetop.

How long can the sauce for this Black Bean Egg Bake be stored?

The bean-tomato base can be stored in the refrigerator for about three days. Simply reheat the sauce, crack in fresh eggs, and bake when you’re ready to enjoy the dish.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Black Bean Egg Bake a try and enjoy it as much as my family does. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that can bring everyone together for a cozy meal. The flavors of the saucy beans, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked eggs are sure to please any palate.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Black Bean Egg Bake! Add your favorite toppings, switch up the cheese, or incorporate different ingredients to make it your own. Whether you whip it up for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is a winner. So grab your skillet, preheat your oven, and get ready to dig into a delicious Black Bean Egg Bake that will surely become a favorite in your home.