Save It Zesty, satisfying tacos packed with smoky Cajun-spiced black beans, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings are perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal.
I first made these tacos on a busy weeknight and was amazed how quickly they came together. The combination of black beans and Cajun spices made everyone reach for seconds.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables
- Yellow onion: Finely chopped for sweetness
- Garlic: Minced, adds intensity
- Red bell pepper: Diced for color and crunch
- Black beans: Drained and rinsed, heart of the filling
- Cajun seasoning: Smoky, spicy blend
- Smoked paprika: Adds depth of flavor
- Ground cumin: Earthy undertone
- Salt: Enhances taste
- Black pepper: Mild heat
- Lime juice: Brightens the filling
- Corn or flour tortillas: Warmed, for serving
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the warm filling
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Creamy topping
- Shredded lettuce: Adds crunch
- Tomato: Diced for freshness
- Fresh cilantro leaves: Chopped for herbal flavor
- Avocado: Sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges: For serving
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables:
- Chop onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Prepare toppings.
- Cook Filling:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion 2-3 min until softened. Add garlic and bell pepper, cook 2 min, stirring often.
- Spice and Simmer:
- Stir in beans, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook 4-5 min, stirring occasionally until beans are hot and flavors meld.
- Mash and Add Lime:
- Gently mash some beans with a spoon for texture. Stir in lime juice and remove from heat.
- Warm Tortillas:
- Heat tortillas until pliable in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Assemble Tacos:
- Sprinkle cheese on tortillas. Spoon hot bean mixture, then add sour cream or Greek yogurt, lettuce, tomato, cilantro, and avocado. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Save It These tacos have become a family favorite for movie nights and quick dinners. Even picky eaters love to stack on the toppings and make their tacos just the way they like.
Required Tools
Large skillet, cutting board, knife, wooden spoon, can opener, measuring spoons, and cups make prepping and cooking easy.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream/Greek yogurt). Use dairy-free alternatives for vegan version. Tortillas may contain gluten: pick certified gluten-free if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 tacos): 390 calories, 17 g fat, 47 g carbohydrates, 14 g protein.
Save It These cheesy black bean tacos deliver Cajun flavor with every bite. Serve with lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use canned black beans?
Yes, canned black beans are ideal for this dish. Drain and rinse well before cooking for best texture.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack melt well and pair nicely with Cajun flavors. Pepper Jack adds extra heat.
- → How can I make this vegan?
Use plant-based cheese and replace sour cream or Greek yogurt with a dairy-free option for a vegan meal.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Opt for certified gluten-free corn tortillas and check labels for seasonings to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat, or use mild Cajun seasoning for a gentler kick.
- → What toppings pair well?
Lettuce, tomato, avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges add freshness and balance rich flavors in the tacos.