Eggs are truly a fantastic foundation for any meal, especially when you’re looking for a boost of protein to kickstart your day. Our Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake takes simple eggs and elevates them into a hearty, satisfying casserole packed with an abundance of wholesome ingredients. Imagine tender spinach, robust black beans, gooey melted cheese, tangy salsa verde, and the fresh bite of green onion and cilantro all baked together into a golden, delicious dish. It’s an explosion of texture and taste in every forkful.

This easy-to-make egg bake is designed to be a healthy and fulfilling option, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or grabbing a pre-portioned slice from the fridge on your way to work. It’s the ideal solution for those who love eggs and crave a nutritious, flavorful meal that can fit seamlessly into a busy schedule. If you’re a fan of savory breakfasts or a lover of Southwestern-inspired cuisine, this dish will quickly become a cherished favorite.

For more fantastic grab-and-go breakfast ideas or wholesome morning meals, be sure to explore some of our other popular recipes. Try our savory Caprese Egg Muffins for an Italian twist, the comforting Egg & Sausage Casserole for a heartier option, our delicious Vegetarian Breakfast Burritos, or the sweet and satisfying Overnight Triple Berry Oatmeal. Each offers a unique way to enjoy a great breakfast!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake with Salsa Verde deserves a prime spot in your recipe collection. Here are just a few of the compelling benefits that make it a must-try dish:

• Effortless Meal Prep: This Southwestern egg bake truly shines as a meal prep hero. You can easily cook a large batch, let it cool, and then slice it into individual portions to store in airtight containers in your refrigerator. This thoughtful preparation means you’ll have a ready-to-eat breakfast or light lunch at your fingertips for several days, saving you precious time and effort during busy mornings or rushed lunch breaks. It can be enjoyed warm after a quick microwave reheat or even cold if you’re truly on the go, making it incredibly convenient.
• Incredibly Versatile: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. The base of eggs, black beans, and salsa verde creates a fantastic canvas for customization. Don’t hesitate to incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even some zucchini. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can also be added to suit your family’s preferences. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages creativity, allowing you to tailor it to whatever ingredients you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving.
• Nutritious & Low Carb: For those seeking a healthy and energizing meal, this egg casserole delivers. It’s loaded with high-quality protein from the eggs and black beans, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning or afternoon. Its naturally low-carb profile makes it an excellent choice for a breakfast or lunch option that supports a balanced diet without compromising on taste or substance.
• Delightfully Vegetarian: This recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, making it a superb choice for those following a meat-free diet. Simply ensure you use a vegetarian-friendly cheese (most standard cheeses are, but it’s always good to check labels if unsure). It provides a complete and satisfying meal without any meat, offering a flavorful and protein-rich alternative for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day.
• Packed with Southwestern Flavors: The combination of black beans, salsa verde, cilantro, and green onions creates an authentic and vibrant Southwestern flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Each bite transports you to a sunny, flavorful culinary landscape.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need for This Delicious Egg Bake

Crafting this flavorful Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake requires a straightforward list of readily available ingredients. Here’s an overview of the simple components that come together to create this incredible dish. For precise measurements and step-by-step printable instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

• Eggs: The foundation of our bake! I recommend using 8 large, fresh free-range eggs for their rich flavor and vibrant yolks. This quantity is perfectly sized to yield 6 generous servings of this satisfying casserole. Eggs provide essential protein and bind all the delicious elements together.
• Onion: For a delicate yet distinct onion flavor that complements the other Southwestern ingredients without overpowering them, I prefer to use finely chopped green onions (scallions). They add a fresh, mild punginess that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped cilantro is essential for that authentic Southwestern zest. Its bright, citrusy notes perfectly balance the richness of the cheese and eggs. Don’t skip it if you love that classic flavor!
• Spinach: To boost the nutritional value and add a touch of earthiness, we incorporate fresh spinach. It’s gently wilted down before mixing, which reduces its volume and ensures it disperses beautifully throughout the bake, adding a lovely green hue and a dose of vitamins.
• Salsa: The secret weapon for a burst of tangy flavor! I’ve chosen a good quality salsa verde (green salsa) for this recipe. Its bright acidity and mild, zesty kick are the perfect counterpoint to the other ingredients, creating a harmonious and exciting taste experience. If you prefer a red salsa, feel free to substitute.
• Beans: Black beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, contributing to the heartiness and texture of the bake. They absorb the flavors beautifully. While black beans are my go-to, you could easily swap them for other small, firm beans like pinto or borlotti beans for a slightly different character.
• Cheese: For that irresistible cheesy goodness, I opt for sharp cheddar cheese, which melts wonderfully and provides a rich, savory depth. However, this is a great opportunity to customize! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese—Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, Monterey Jack for milder flavor, or a Mexican blend for an authentic touch.
• Seasoning: Keeping it simple allows the natural flavors to shine. A generous pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper is all you need to perfectly season the egg mixture, enhancing every ingredient without masking their individual contributions. Adjust to your personal taste preferences.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To prepare this Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For whisking the eggs and combining ingredients.
• Whisk or Fork: To thoroughly beat the eggs.
• Medium Pot or Skillet: For wilting the spinach.
• 8.5 x 12-inch Baking Dish: Or a similar size (e.g., a 9×13 inch if you prefer a slightly thinner bake or are scaling up).
• Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping green onions and cilantro.

Exciting Recipe Variations to Explore

This Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake is incredibly flexible, allowing you to easily adapt it to your taste preferences, what’s in season, or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! Here are some ideas for delicious variations:

• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by incorporating other finely chopped vegetables. Consider adding diced red onion, bell peppers (any color works beautifully for a pop of color and sweetness), sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth, or shredded zucchini. Make sure to pre-cook any veggies that release a lot of water to prevent a soggy egg bake.
• Swap Leafy Greens: While spinach is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other leafy greens. Arugula will add a peppery bite, Swiss chard offers a slightly bitter note, and kale (especially lacinato kale, finely chopped and massaged) provides a more robust texture and flavor.
• Include Olives: For a briny, savory punch, add a handful of your favorite chopped olives. Black olives will blend seamlessly, while green olives or Kalamata olives will introduce a more distinct flavor.
• Vary Fresh Herbs: Cilantro lends a signature Southwestern flavor, but you can certainly try other fresh herbs. Fresh parsley offers a milder, herbaceous note; basil can bring a touch of Italian flair; or dill for a fresh, slightly tangy twist. A mix of herbs can also be delightful!
• Experiment with Cheese: The type of cheese can dramatically change the flavor profile. Besides sharp cheddar, consider using Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, crumbled feta for a salty tang, shredded mozzarella for a milder, stretchier melt, grated Parmesan for umami depth, cotija cheese for a crumbly, salty texture, or even creamy goat cheese for a luxurious touch.
• Boost Protein Options: If you’re looking to make this even heartier, cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is perfect!), crumbled cooked bacon, or diced ham can be folded into the egg mixture. For plant-based protein additions, consider crumbled firm tofu or tempeh, which will absorb the vibrant flavors beautifully.
• Make it Spicy: Amp up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture, dicing in some fresh jalapeños (with or without seeds depending on desired heat level), or drizzling with a hot sauce before serving.
• Gluten-Free by Nature: Good news! This egg bake is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities or preferences. Just ensure all your chosen ingredients (like salsa) are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a high-quality dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. The robust flavors from the salsa verde and herbs will still ensure a delicious outcome.

Step 1. Sauté the Spinach: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While the oven heats, take a medium pot or a large skillet and gently sauté the 4 cups of fresh spinach. This process will take approximately 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach is visibly wilted down. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly. If there’s excess water, gently press it out to avoid a watery egg bake.

Step 2. Prepare the Eggs: In a generously sized mixing bowl, crack and thoroughly beat the 8 eggs until they are light and frothy. This aeration helps create a fluffier egg bake. Incorporate the vibrant salsa verde, along with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.

Step 3. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly spray an 8 1/2 x 12 inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks. Evenly spread the drained and rinsed black beans across the bottom of the dish, forming a flavorful base. Next, layer the wilted spinach over the black beans, followed by a generous sprinkling of the freshly chopped green onions and cilantro. Distribute these ingredients as evenly as possible.

Step 4. Add the Cheese, Beans & Egg: Now for the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the layered spinach and black beans. Then, carefully and slowly pour the whisked egg mixture over all the ingredients in the baking dish. To ensure everything is perfectly combined and the flavors meld, use a fork to gently mix the eggs and fillings together in the dish. This ensures every bite has a bit of everything.

Step 5. Bake Eggs in Oven: Place the prepared baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set (no jiggle in the center) and the top has achieved a beautiful golden brown hue. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Step 6. Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the egg bake from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the egg mixture to fully set, making it much easier to cut into neat, individual squares. Serve warm with an array of your favorite garnishes such as extra salsa (red or green!), a dollop of cooling sour cream or Greek yogurt, more fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of extra cheese for added indulgence. Enjoy!

Delightful Serving Suggestions

This easy Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake is incredibly delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a thoughtful selection of toppings and side dishes. I love turning serving into an interactive experience by setting out a variety of garnishes in individual bowls, allowing everyone to customize their egg bake exactly to their liking.

For an authentic Southwestern experience, fresh tasting salsas are always a fantastic choice. Try our bright and zesty Avocado Tomatillo Salsa, or the classic freshness of this Homemade Pico de Gallo. To balance the spice and add a creamy element, a dollop of sour cream or thick Greek yogurt is highly recommended. Fresh avocado slices offer a rich, buttery texture, while an extra sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or parsley enhances the aromatic profile. And for the ultimate cheese lover, a little extra shredded cheese on top never hurts! For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, serving the egg bake with a side of toasted bread or warm tortillas is a wonderful addition.

Beyond breakfast and brunch, this versatile egg bake also makes for an excellent light lunch option. Complement its rich flavors with a crisp and refreshing side salad. Consider trying our vibrant Easy Lebanese Salad, the cooling Persian Tomato Cucumber Salad, or our unique and flavorful Lemon Brussels Sprout Slaw. Each offers a light, tangy contrast that perfectly rounds out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Convenience

One of the best features of this Cheesy Black Bean Egg Bake is how wonderfully it stores, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. To maximize convenience and maintain freshness, allow any leftover egg bake to cool completely before storing. I highly recommend cutting it into individual squares, as this makes portioning and reheating incredibly easy. Place these squares into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you have a healthy and delicious grab-and-go breakfast or lunch option ready whenever hunger strikes. To reheat, simply place a square in the microwave for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispier texture, you can also reheat it in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Freezing Instructions: If you want to extend its shelf life even further, this egg bake freezes beautifully. Once cooled and cut into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. To enjoy, thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as directed above. This makes healthy eating even more accessible!