Taco Bell black Beans Recipe
This Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe delivers creamy, savory flavor using black beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, and mild spices in one pan.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
- Small knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz each black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional but lovely
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ cup water or vegetable broth
Optional additions:
- A squeeze of lime juice
- A pinch of oregano
- Fresh cilantro for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until soft and translucent. You’re not browning it—just softening and sweetening it.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t rush this, but don’t let it burn either.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Let the spices bloom in the oil for about 30 seconds. This step matters more than people realize—it wakes everything up.
- Add the black beans and water or broth. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the beans cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lightly mash some of the beans with the back of your spoon to create a creamier texture, just like Taco Bell’s. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- That’s it. Simple, cozy, and incredibly versatile.