Black Bean Butternut Squash, and Collard Greens Stew

Name: Black Bean Butternut Squash, and Collard Greens Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 4 cups collard greens, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onNovember 19, 2025

Delicious black bean stew with butternut squash and collard greens in a bowl

Dinner Recipes

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Black Bean Butternut Squash, and Collard Greens Stew is one of those comforting dishes that fills your home with warmth and makes your taste buds dance. Bursting with flavors and rich in nutrients, this stew is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful family meal on the weekend. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the way it transforms humble ingredients into a nourishing bowl of goodness that everyone can enjoy.

Loving This Hearty Black Bean Butternut Squash

You’ll love this dish not only for its mouthwatering taste but also for its fantastic health benefits. With hearty black bean butternut squash, and nutrient-packed collard greens, this stew is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s a fantastic option for those on a budget who want to eat meals packed with flavor and substance. Not to mention, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily cater to various dietary preferences!

“This stew is a game changer! The flavors meld together so beautifully, and it’s perfect for meal prep throughout the week. Highly recommended!” – A happy home cook.

Cooking Process Made Easy

Making Black Bean Butternut Squash, and Collard Greens Stew is a breeze. It involves straightforward steps that ensure you maximize flavor while minimizing time in the kitchen. All you need is a large pot, and you’ll be sautéing, stirring, and simmering your way to a delicious dish in no time. The best part? You can let it simmer while you relax or tackle another task around the house.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this delightful stew, you’ll need:

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
4 cups collard greens, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Feel free to swap in different greens if you can’t find collard greens kale or spinach work beautifully too!

Step-by-Step Preparation

Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the mixture becomes translucent and aromatic.
Add Butternut Squash: Toss in the cubed butternut squash and cook for about five minutes, allowing it to start softening.
Combine Ingredients: Mix in the black beans, chopped collard greens, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer: Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender, and the collard greens are perfectly cooked.
Final Touches: Adjust your seasoning if necessary, serve hot, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile in how you can enjoy it. For a satisfying meal, serve it in deep bowls topped with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick. Pairing it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa enhances the experience. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers or you’re lucky enough to make this for meal prep let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. To reheat, just warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Pro Tips for Success

Freshness Matters: Use fresh garlic and a ripe butternut squash for maximum flavor.
Customize Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like chili powder for some heat or thyme for an earthy depth.
Texture Preference: If you prefer a thicker stew, blend a portion of it with an immersion blender, then stir it back in.

Flavor Variations to Explore

Try adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to enhance the stew’s natural sweetness. For a kick, toss in red pepper flakes or switch up the beans for kidney or pinto beans. You can also create a coconut curry twist by including coconut milk and curry powder for a rich, creamy version.

Your Questions Answered for Black Bean Butternut Squash

How long does it take to make this stew?
From start to finish, you can have this stew ready in about 40-50 minutes. It’s a great option for busy weeknights!

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure you soak and cook the dried beans beforehand, as they take longer to prepare compared to canned.

Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat products. It’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities!

What if I can’t find collard greens?
You can substitute collard greens with kale, Swiss chard, or even spinach—just add them towards the end of cooking since they cook faster.

Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge or freeze it in portions.

What is a good serving size?
A typical serving size is about 1.5 to 2 cups, depending on your appetite and what you serve it with.

How can I make it spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the stew while it simmers.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The natural sweetness of the butternut squash and the comforting flavors make it appealing to children, and you can adjust spices based on your family’s preference.

Get ready to warm up your kitchen and indulge in a bowl of this nourishing stew—your taste buds will thank you!