# What You'll Need:
→ Black Bean Filling
01 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
11 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
→ Sandwich
12 - 8 slices sandwich bread (whole wheat or white)
13 - 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
14 - 4 tablespoons butter, softened
# How-To Steps:
01 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
02 - Add black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder if using, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, mashing some beans with the back of a spoon to combine flavors.
03 - Remove skillet from heat. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Set mixture aside.
04 - Arrange bread slices on a work surface. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
05 - Place half the bread slices buttered side down. Evenly distribute the black bean filling over them, then top with shredded cheese. Close sandwiches with remaining slices, buttered side up.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches onto the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
07 - Slice sandwiches and serve warm.
