Go Back
+ servings
Cheesy Quinoa & Black Bean Taco Skillet

Cheesy Quinoa & Black Bean Taco Skillet in 30 Minutes!

Cheesy Quinoa & Black Bean Taco Skillet is a quick, protein-packed dinner solution perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Quinoa
  • 1 cup Quinoa Can substitute with brown rice for a different texture.
  • 2 cups Water Essential for cooking the quinoa.
For the Skillet
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing vegetables; avocado oil is a great substitution.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides a sweet, aromatic base flavor.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Adds vibrant color and sweetness.
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Brings a kick of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Fire-roasted varieties amp up the flavor.
  • 1 can Black Beans Use canned for convenience and rinse to cut sodium.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Fundamental for flavor and warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Offers that earthy taco flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Cheddar or Tex-Mex mix work beautifully.
  • to taste Cilantro Leaves Optional garnishes.
  • 1 medium Avocado Optional garnishes.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onion Optional garnishes.
  • to taste Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream Optional garnishes.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • lid

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once the water is absorbed, remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and translucent.
  3. Toss in the chopped bell peppers, jalapeño, and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but not mushy.
  4. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, and preferred seasonings like 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Lower the skillet's heat and gently fold in the cooked quinoa. Allow everything to warm together for about 2 minutes. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
  6. Serve and garnish with fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Always rinse quinoa before cooking to eliminate bitterness. Consider mixing different cheeses for a richer taste, and don’t overcook the veggies.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!