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Pumpkin and Black Bean Tacos Recipe

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4.3 from 187 reviews

These Pumpkin and Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and hearty vegetarian meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining creamy spiced pumpkin puree with savory refried black beans and melted pepper jack cheese, these tacos are pan-toasted to crisp perfection. Topped with your favorite salsa, avocado, or sour cream, they offer comforting flavors with a nutritious twist.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 tacos

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup refried black beans, homemade or canned
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 6-8 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt, to taste
  • Cooking spray, butter or oil of choice

Optional Toppings

  • Avocado
  • Salsa
  • Hot sauce
  • Pico de gallo
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: Scoop the pumpkin puree into a medium-sized bowl. Add salt, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir thoroughly until all the spices are evenly combined into the pumpkin.
  2. Heat the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in a pan over medium heat with a light coating of cooking spray or oil to make them more flexible and prevent breaking when folded. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Lay the warmed tortillas flat. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of refried black beans on one side of each tortilla. Add a spoonful of the pumpkin mixture over the beans and spread evenly. Sprinkle a small handful of shredded pepper jack cheese on top. Fold the tortillas over to form tacos.
  4. Cook the Tacos: Heat a large pan over medium heat and coat with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Place the folded tacos into the pan with the cheese side down to help it melt quickly. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until both sides are browned, crispy, and the cheese inside has melted.
  5. Serve: Let the tacos cool for a few minutes to firm up and avoid messiness. Add optional toppings like avocado, salsa, hot sauce, pico de gallo, or sour cream as desired. Serve with tortilla chips if you like.

Notes

  • Using freshly made refried beans can enhance the flavor, but canned works well too.
  • Adjust the amount of spices in the pumpkin mixture according to your taste preference.
  • Heating tortillas in a pan improves flexibility and texture compared to microwaving.
  • For a vegan option, substitute cheese with a plant-based alternative and use oil instead of butter.
  • Letting the tacos rest before eating helps prevent them from falling apart.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Tacos
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian