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Black Bean and Courgette Chilaquiles

This black bean and courgette chilaquiles is a vibrantly flavoured vegetarian bake that brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. Combining earthy black beans with fresh courgette and a spiced tomato sauce, the dish uses layers of corn tortillas to create a satisfying, lasagne-like texture. It is a wonderful way to use up store-cupboard staples while incorporating fresh seasonal vegetables for a wholesome, savoury dinner.

Perfect for a midweek family meal or a casual weekend brunch, this heart-healthy dish is packed with plant-based protein and fibre. The combination of melted cheddar and warm spices makes it ultimate comfort food that is surprisingly simple to prepare. Serve your chilaquiles with a dollop of soured cream, a squeeze of lime, or a handful of fresh coriander for a bright, finishing touch.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Black Bean and Courgette Chilaquiles

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons light or extra-virgin olive oil

  • 240ml chopped onion

  • 1 medium green pepper, diced

  • One 800g can crushed or puréed tomatoes

  • 2 teaspoons chilli powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • One 16- to 575g can black beans or 600ml cooked black beans (from about 240ml dried)

  • 1 medium courgette, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced

  • 1 small fresh hot chilli pepper, seeded and minced, or one 110g can chopped mild green chilies

  • 12 6-inch corn tortillas, torn or cut into several pieces

  • 230g grated Cheddar cheese or Cheddar-style nondairy cheese

How to make Black Bean and Courgette Chilaquiles

  1. Preheat the oven to 204°C. Lightly oil a 9- by 13-inch baking pan or 2-quart round casserole.

  2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Sauté the onion until translucent. Add the pepper and continue to sauté until it has softened and the onions are golden. Stir in the tomatoes, seasonings, beans, courgette, and chilli pepper. Bring to a simmer, then simmer gently for 5 minutes.

  3. Layer as follows in the prepared pan. Half the tortillas, half the tomato black bean mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes, then cut into squares or wedges to serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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