Refried Beans With Rice And Cheese

This may look like unappetizing mush, but in reality it's pretty tasty! While it's not traditional to add rice to refried beans, I had some leftover and wanted to use it up.

Spicy Beef and Bean Chili

If you're looking for a chili so spicy that it curls your hair, this isn't what you're looking for: this has a little heat, but not enough to really fix up your sinuses. It's delicious, simple and hearty. It was also my first time ever using a chili pepper, so I wanted to start small. I tend to make my chili a bit on the liquidy-er side, so if you want yours thicker, try draining the second can of tomatoes before adding it. You can keep the tomato liquid for making soup. Also, sorry for the poor-quality pictures: the chili was steaming up my camera lens, so it was hard to photograph. This recipe makes 6 servings; remember that chili freezes well.

Rice with Beans, Tomatoes and Spinach

I admit it, this wasn't the most delicious thing I've ever made. It needs work. Especially in the flavor department. But it is a good way to use up extra beans, so get on it! This recipe makes 2 servings.

Spicy Tomato Soup with Sausage and Beans

This soup was really easy to make and really good, not to mention spicy. It'll make you breathe right, that's for sure! The sausage had a nice smoky flavor, and the soup was filling without being too heavy. This recipe makes two generous servings.

Beef and Bean Chili

This was my first-ever chili and it turned out really well: hearty, simple yet complex and, most importantly, delicious. I dare you to make this at home! This recipe makes about 3 servings.