Discover the top 37 bean recipes perfect for any meal
Beans aren’t just a staple; they're a versatile powerhouse in the kitchen. Offering a rich source of plant-based protein, beans can transform any meal into a nourishing, hearty and comforting crowd-pleaser. Whether you're looking to prepare a family meal, utilise those canned or pantry items, or create plant-based budget-friendly dishes, beans are a go-to ingredient that never disappoints. Uncover 37 best bean recipes, using a selection of kidney, black and cannellini beans, that promise to deliver in flavour and satisfaction.
01
Baked bean jaffle
A nostalgic treat with a gourmet twist, these baked bean jaffles are the ultimate comfort food. Stuffed with savoury baked beans, spinach, prosciutto and mozzarella, and encased in crispy, golden bread, they're a simple yet satisfying snack or meal, ideal for those times when you need a quick and comforting bite.
02
Easy Mexican-inspired baked bean quesadillas
This inventive dish takes the humble quesadilla to new heights with a filling of baked beans, tangy salsa and melted cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to make and packs a punch, perfect for a quick family meal that's sure to become a favourite.
03
Potato and bean tortilla with pickled cabbage
Elevate your mealtime with this creative take on the classic tortilla. Combining the heartiness of potatoes and beans with the tangy crunch of pickled cabbage, this dish is a perfect blend of flavours and textures, providing a satisfying option for any day of the week.
04
Black bean and corn tacos
These tacos are a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of combining black beans and corn. With the added freshness of radish, coriander and avocado they're a quick plant-based meal that's perfect for a light yet satisfying family dinner.
05
Simple pea and bean pasta
Devour a bowl of this tasty pea and bean pasta. It's an effortless dish that combines peas, mushrooms and garlic with creamy beans, tossed with wholewheat pasta for a quick meal that epitomises comfort food.
06
Greens, beans and sausage stew
This stew is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with nourishing greens, protein-rich beans and savoury sausage, it's a one-pot meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a no-fuss family dinner.
07
Black bean chilli Buddha bowl
Enjoy this Buddha bowl full of colours, textures and flavours. This recipe features spicy black bean chilli as its centrepiece, surrounded by an array of fresh vegetables and grains, making it a nutrient-dense meal that's as enjoyable as it is healthy. If you prefer a spicier chilli, serve with some pickled jalapenos.
08
Chargrilled vegetable platter with bean dip
This dish is a feast for the senses, featuring beautifully chargrilled vegetables paired with a creamy, flavoursome bean dip. It's a versatile option that can be a starter, a side or even a light main, perfect for any occasion. Serve with dukkah-brushed Lebanese bread for dipping.
09
Easy Italian-style baked beans
Transform your dining experience with a touch of Italy. This recipe brings together a rich tomato sauce, herbs and white beans, baked to perfection. Ideal for a comforting dinner, it's a simple yet tasty way to make a hearty meal that's budget-friendly, nourishing and on the table in 15 minutes.
10
Cannellini, potato and chorizo soup
When blended cannellini beans are a great plant-based replacement for cream and can be added to soups for a dairy-free option. This tasty soup combines creamy cannellini beans, tender potatoes and spicy chorizo in a rich broth, creating a flavour-packed meal that's satisfying and perfect for any season. For a vibrant green soup use broad beans and make this recipe.
11
Italian-style bean and kale stew with pangrattato
Enjoy the rustic flavours of Italy with this stew. Beans and kale simmer together in a savoury broth, topped with crispy pangrattato for a textural contrast. This dish is a testament to the comfort and nourishment beans can bring to the table, making it a perfect option for those chilly evenings when you crave a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out. Try this version of the cassoulet for a French twist.
12
Bean, tomato and radish salad
This refreshing salad brings together the creaminess of beans with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes and the crisp bite of radishes and zucchini. It's a colourful, nourishing side dish that complements any family meal, offering a burst of flavour and variety of textures that’s on the table in less than 30 minutes.
13
Baked egg pot with baked beans and chorizo
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this robust dish, where baked beans and spicy chorizo are topped with a runny egg. It's a comforting meal that starts your day on a high note, combining rich flavours and nourishing ingredients to fuel your day’s activities.
14
Tomato and green bean salad with mustard vinaigrette
This salad is a vibrant side dish that combines the fresh crunch of green beans with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, all dressed in a zesty mustard vinaigrette. It's a light yet satisfying addition to any meal, offering a perfect side to a main meal. Try this green goddess salad for a healthier twist.
15
Mexican-inspired bean cob loaf
After an incredible cob loaf recipe? Try this Mexican-inspired bean and cream cheese filling with smashed avocado and spicy salsa topping. With its creamy, spicy bean filling and crunchy exterior, it's a comforting dish that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.
16
Bean soup with chorizo and tomato
A flavoursome, filling meal that effortlessly combines the heartiness of beans with the rich, spicy notes of chorizo and the acidity of tomatoes. It's a budget-friendly recipe that doesn't skimp on flavour, offering a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any day of the week.
17
Healthier green minestrone
This lighter version of the classic minestrone incorporates a variety of greens and beans, making it a nutrient-packed meal that's both comforting and nourishing. It's an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a winter soup without the heaviness. On the table in just 30 minutes, it’s the go-to meal on a busy day.
18
Healthier baked beans on toast
A healthier take on classic comfort food, this recipe offers a simple yet nutritious meal. It's perfect for those mornings when you need a quick healthier start to the day, proving that beans can be a powerhouse ingredient in even the simplest of dishes. Want something a little more robust? Take your beans on toast up a notch with this recipe featuring spinach and chorizo.
19
Savoury waffles with baked beans chorizo and egg
Transform your breakfast or brunch with these savoury waffles, topped with baked beans, spicy chorizo and a runny egg. It's a gourmet take on traditional breakfast ingredients, combined to create a robust yet easy meal.
20
Air-fryer green-bean fries
An easy-to-eat crispy snack or side dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional fries. These green bean fries are made in the air fryer for a crunchy exterior and tender interior, proving that beans can be flavoursome in any form.
21
Green goddess pasta salad
This pasta salad brings a burst of freshness with its combination of green beans and a vibrant, herby dressing. It's a winning side dish or light meal that's ideal for picnics, potlucks or a refreshing meal at home, showcasing the versatility of beans in salads.
22
Baked beans
The humble baked beans on toast is a typical British staple and brings back childhood memories for many. It’s a classic easy-to-follow dish that's been loved for generations and brings a comforting taste of home without too much expense. Perfect as a side dish or the main component of a meal, they're a testament to the simple, nourishing pleasure beans can bring to any dining table.
23
Cheesy chicken and bean baked burritos
A speedy comforting meal that wraps tender chicken, creamy beans and melty cheese in a soft tortilla, then bakes until golden. It's a family-friendly, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for satisfying hungry bellies.
24
Sausage and baked bean pot pies
A cosy, comforting dish that combines savoury sausages and hearty baked beans in a rich sauce, topped with a flaky pastry crust. It's the perfect meal for colder days when you crave something warm and satisfying.
25
Baked beans pasta
An inventive take on pasta that incorporates baked beans for a creamy, comforting dish using just three ingredients. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that showcases how beans can add depth and heartiness to even the most basic dishes, making it a budget-friendly option for family dinners.
26
Creamy bean bruschetta
An elegant yet easy appetiser or snack, this bruschetta features a mash-up of creamy bean spread atop crusty bread, garnished with fresh herbs and radishes. It works as a starter or a light lunch, offering a light yet satisfying taste experience that perfectly showcases the versatility of beans.
27
Mexican-style bean soup
There's nothing like a warming soup on a chilly evening. This Mexican-style bean soup recipe is loaded with beans and beef for a satisfying dinner. It's a warming, comforting dish that brings a touch of Mexican cuisine to your table, ideal for a budget-friendly family meal.
28
Beetroot and white bean dip
A visually stunning and moreish dip that combines the earthy sweetness of beetroot with the creamy texture of white beans. This dip is perfect for parties or as a healthier snack, offering a nourishing option that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
29
Vegetarian mince
A versatile and hearty base for a variety of dishes, this vegetarian mince uses beans as the main ingredient, providing a plant-based protein source that's both nourishing and tasty. It's ideal for making tacos, lasagna or as a filling for stuffed vegetables, showcasing the adaptability of beans in vegetarian cooking.
30
Sausages with white bean mash
A modern twist on a traditional dish, turn a can of white beans into a smooth, velvety mash that provides a comforting and budget-friendly base for sausages. This recipe is a testament to the simplicity and satisfaction that beans can bring to the dinner table, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy family meal.
31
Bean broccoli pesto
Mint, broccolini and broad beans star in this super green pesto. Have it as a dip, smear it on sandwiches, or stir it through pasta. It's a brilliant way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based protein into your meals, with the convenience of having a versatile condiment on hand.
32
Beetroot, bean and feta burger
These budget-friendly veggie burgers combine the earthiness of beetroot, the creaminess of beans and the tanginess of feta to create a flavour-packed patty. Whether served on a bun or as a standalone rissole, this dish offers a satisfying, plant-based alternative to traditional burgers, perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
33
Black bean nachos
A vegetarian twist on the classic nacho dish, using black beans as a hearty base complemented by creamy avocado, fresh capsicum and sweetcorn. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings family and friends together over a shared love for Mexican-inspired cuisine, offering a great vegan meal option.
34
Slow cooker chilli
Utilising the slow cooker, this meat-free chilli stars black beans as the main ingredient, creating a deep, richly flavoured dish that's both hearty and satisfying. It's an excellent meal prep option, offering a budget-friendly and convenient solution for busy weeknights.
35
Avocado, quinoa and broad bean salad
This salad is a celebration of textures and flavours, combining creamy avocado, fluffy quinoa and vibrant broad beans for a light yet fulfilling meal. It's a testament to the versatility of beans in salads, offering a quick and easy nourishing dish that's perfect for lunch or a side.
36
Homemade baked beans
Showcasing the comfort and simplicity of making baked beans from scratch, this recipe is a staple for easy, café-style breakfasts at home. It's also versatile enough to be enjoyed as a hearty side dish, or a filling for savoury jaffles or baked potato for a budget-friendly yet tasty dinner.
37
Enchiladas with rice and beans
These enchiladas offer a triple bean delight, featuring red kidney, black and pinto beans wrapped in gluten free soft tortillas and smothered in cheese. It's a dish that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine, providing a gluten-free, family-friendly meal that's vegetarian and easy on the wallet.