This Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of day. The smooth and creamy polenta paired with the rich and flavorful refried beans creates a satisfying base, while the eggs add a protein-packed element. Topped with fresh cilantro and cheese, this dish brings together both texture and flavor in every bite.
Not only is this skillet bake easy to make, but it’s also incredibly customizable! You can add any toppings or spices that suit your taste, from jalapeños for a spicy kick to avocado slices for added creaminess. It’s the perfect dish for lazy mornings, family brunches, or even a quick weeknight dinner.
Full Recipe:
-
1 cup polenta
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 small onion, chopped
-
1 can (15 oz) refried beans
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1 teaspoon cumin
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
4 large eggs
-
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
-
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
-
1 tablespoon sour cream (optional)
Directions:
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce the heat. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened. Set aside.
-
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
-
Stir in the refried beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Spoon the cooked polenta into the skillet with the refried beans, spreading it evenly over the beans.
-
Make small wells in the polenta with a spoon and crack the eggs into the wells.
-
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your desired level of doneness.
-
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cilantro, cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal of the day, look no further than the Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake. This delicious recipe is a combination of creamy polenta, rich refried beans, and protein-packed eggs, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With its comforting ingredients and simple preparation, this skillet bake has become a favorite in many households.
Why Choose Polenta, Refried Beans, and Eggs?
This dish offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. Polenta, a cornmeal-based dish, provides a smooth, creamy base that pairs perfectly with the hearty, savory refried beans. The eggs add richness and protein, making this meal both filling and nourishing. What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility – you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or seeking to add more spice or toppings to elevate the flavor.
The Benefits of Polenta
Polenta is a versatile and affordable ingredient made from ground cornmeal. It is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to gluten or following a gluten-free diet. Polenta is also rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps you feel fuller for longer. It’s a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy, making it an ideal base for a filling and satisfying meal. Additionally, polenta is a great source of essential minerals like iron and magnesium, contributing to overall health and wellbeing.
Refried Beans: A Nutritious and Flavorful Addition
Refried beans are an essential part of this recipe. Made from cooked and mashed beans, usually pinto or black beans, they add a creamy texture and deep, savory flavor to the dish. Refried beans are rich in plant-based protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a heart-healthy meal. They also contain important nutrients like iron, potassium, and folate, which are essential for maintaining healthy bodily functions. Not only do refried beans enhance the flavor profile of the skillet bake, but they also contribute to the meal’s nutritional value, making it both satisfying and good for you.
Eggs: The Perfect Protein-Packed Topping
Eggs are the star of many breakfast and brunch dishes, and they make the perfect topping for this skillet bake. Rich in high-quality protein, eggs help to build and repair tissues and are a great source of essential amino acids. They are also packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and choline, which support brain health and energy production. Eggs add a layer of richness and flavor to the dish, while their runny yolks (if cooked to your liking) create a silky, comforting texture that ties the entire dish together. Plus, eggs are incredibly versatile and can be cooked to your preference, whether you like them soft-boiled, poached, or scrambled.
How to Customize Your Skillet Bake
One of the best things about this Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake is its customization potential. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily add your own spin to it by incorporating different ingredients or toppings. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the beans or polenta. For added texture and flavor, try topping the dish with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of shredded cheese. You could even experiment with different types of cheese, such as cotija, cheddar, or feta, depending on your flavor preferences.
If you follow a vegan or plant-based diet, it’s easy to modify this dish by omitting the eggs or using a plant-based egg substitute. You can also opt for dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether. The polenta and refried beans are already so flavorful that they can stand on their own, but adding vegan-friendly toppings like guacamole or salsa can further enhance the flavor.
For a more filling version of the dish, you can add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix. These additions not only provide more nutrients but also add a burst of color and variety to the dish. The possibilities are endless, and you can make this recipe your own by choosing ingredients that reflect your personal taste and dietary needs.
How to Serve the Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake
This skillet bake is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be served at any time of day. It’s a fantastic option for breakfast or brunch, as the combination of eggs and polenta provides a satisfying, protein-packed meal. You can serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch. If you’re preparing it for dinner, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
The dish can also be served as a crowd-pleasing option for family gatherings or casual dinner parties. Since it’s made in one skillet, it’s easy to prepare and clean up afterward. Plus, the dish can be served directly from the skillet, creating a rustic and comforting presentation. To make it even more festive, you can garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a drizzle of hot sauce, depending on your flavor preferences.
Nutritional Value of the Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake
This dish offers a well-rounded nutritional profile. The polenta provides a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates, while the refried beans contribute plant-based protein and fiber. The eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, and their healthy fats support overall health. The combination of these ingredients ensures that the skillet bake is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced.
For those looking to manage their calorie intake, this recipe is relatively low in calories, especially when served in moderate portions. You can also adjust the amount of cheese or sour cream to suit your dietary preferences and reduce the overall calorie content. With its satisfying texture and balanced nutrition, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful meal.
Conclusion
The Polenta, Refried Beans, and Egg Skillet Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that is perfect for any time of day. With its rich combination of creamy polenta, savory refried beans, and protein-packed eggs, it’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this skillet bake is sure to please everyone at the table. The recipe is simple to make, customizable, and easy to adjust to different dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty and flavorful meal!