This simple dump and bake casserole recipe uses brown rice, black beans, and sweet potato to create a hearty, healthy meal! Since it requires almost no prep, you can have this recipe in the oven in no time!

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Bake
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Looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying? This vegetarian dump and bake casserole is the perfect solution! This plant-based casserole is packed with healthy ingredients like black beans, sweet potatoes, and brown rice — making it a great option for busy weeknights. If you enjoy this recipe be sure to try my other beans and rice casserole!

Ingredients & Substitutions

  • Brown Rice – This recipe uses uncooked brown rice for a hearty, whole-grain base. If you prefer, you can substitute with long grain white rice or quinoa, but keep in mind that cooking times will vary.
  • Sweet Potato – The sweet potato adds a wonderful texture and natural sweetness to the casserole. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for butternut squash.
  • Black Beans – Canned black beans are perfect for this recipe, providing protein and fiber. You could also use pinto beans or kidney beans as alternatives.
  • Vegetable Broth – This forms the liquid base of the casserole, helping to cook the rice and infuse the dish with flavor. A low-sodium vegetable broth works well if you’re watching your salt intake.
  • Salsa – Salsa adds a lot of flavor to the casserole. Choose your favorite brand, or make your own if you have the time. You can adjust the spice level by selecting a mild, medium, or hot salsa.
  • Taco Seasoning – This adds another layer of flavor to the dish. If you prefer, you can use a homemade spice blend or adjust the amount to suit your taste.

How to Make Sweet Potato Black Bean Casserole

Add black beans, sweet potatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning and stir.
Top with brown rice.
Add hot broth on top. Press the rice down to submerge it in the broth. Cover with foil and bake.
Bake for one hour or until rice is tender.
Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, while black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Combined with brown rice, this casserole provides a well-balanced, nutrient-rich meal.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. You could also use hot salsa to add even more spicy flavor.
  • Add Greens: Toss in a few handfuls of spinach or chopped kale before baking for an extra boost of nutrients.
  • Different Beans: Swap the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans if you want to switch up the flavors.
black bean casserole

What to Serve with This Recipe

Pair this casserole with my Mexican street corn salad. It’s one of my most popular recipes for a reason! If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try my simple guacamole recipe or my guacamole stuffed peppers.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

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black bean and sweet potato casserole

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Bake

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  • Author: Liz Thomson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan
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Description

This simple dump and bake casserole recipe uses brown rice, black beans, and sweet potato to create a hearty, healthy meal! Since it requires almost no prep, you can have this recipe in the oven in no time!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 2 cups or 10 oz)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 cup uncooked brown rice
  • Topping ideas: extra salsa, avocado, cilantro sauce, hot sauce, etc.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
  2. In a microwave-safe glass, microwave the vegetable broth for 2 minutes, or until boiling. (Alternatively, you can bring this mixture to a boil on the stovetop.)
  3. While the broth is heating, evenly spread the black beans, sweet potatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning across a 9×13″ pan or casserole dish.
  4. Mix everything together until well combined, then spread the uncooked brown rice evenly on top.
  5. Once the broth mixture is boiling, carefully pour it evenly over the casserole. Use a spatula to press the rice into the mixture so it’s submerged.
  6. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 55- 60 minutes. The broth should be absorbed. If it looks like there is still liquid in the casserole dish, stir and continue to bake for 5-10 minutes until the broth is completely absorbed.
  7. After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes before serving. 
  8. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!