

Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Sweet Potato Black Bean Healthy Meal Prep is my secret weapon. It’s the kind of meal that proves you don’t need expensive ingredients to eat well. If you love the combination of sweet potatoes and black beans, you might also enjoy a heartier, baked option like this Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chipotle Beef Casserole.
I make this almost every week. It keeps my wallet happy and my body fueled. Let me show you how to build a flavor-packed vegan bowl that’s as practical as it is delicious.
Recipe Overview
Here’s the quick snapshot of what we’re making. It’s simple, fast, and designed for busy lives.
- Cuisine: Vegan / Tex-Mex Inspired
- Category: Healthy Meal Prep
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 hearty meals
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
This isn’t just cheap food. It’s smart food. Every ingredient is chosen for its value and nutrition.
Sweet potatoes and black beans are some of the most affordable staples you can buy. They are packed with fiber and protein, which means they fill you up for hours. You avoid the expensive trap of processed snacks.
The spicy sauce uses pantry spices you likely own. We skip the pricey store-bought dressings. Cooking in bulk like this also cuts down on energy costs compared to making a new meal every night.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years. They make a huge difference in my grocery bill.
Always buy dried beans if you have the time. A bag is far cheaper than cans. Just soak them overnight. If using canned, look for store-brand beans—they’re identical in quality.
Purchase sweet potatoes in bulk from the loose bin. You can pick the exact size you need. Buy generic spices in the bulk section, too. You pay for the spice, not the fancy glass jar.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Healthy Meal Prep Recipe

The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Black Bean Healthy Meal Prep Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Frozen corn is a game-changer. It’s often cheaper than fresh and just as nutritious. It also won’t go bad in your fridge.
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Here’s everything you need. I bet you have half of it already.
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 lime
- Optional for serving: avocado, cilantro, red onion
For the Spicy Sauce:
- 1/3 cup plain plant-based yogurt or mayo
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Cholula or Sriracha)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps. In less than an hour, you’ll have lunches or dinners for days.
- Start by roasting. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them on a baking sheet with the oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
- Warm the beans and corn. While the potatoes roast, add the rinsed black beans and frozen corn to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low until warmed through. This only takes about 5 minutes.
- Make the magic sauce. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth. Taste and add salt or more hot sauce if you like.
- Assemble your bowls. Divide the roasted sweet potatoes, warm beans, and corn between four meal prep containers. Slice the lime into wedges and add one to each container.
- Store the sauce separately. Pour the spicy sauce into four small containers or condiment cups. Keep them separate until you’re ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
I hate throwing food away. Here’s how to make sure nothing goes to waste.
If you have extra sweet potatoes, mash them for a quick breakfast hash. Leftover beans and corn can go into a breakfast scramble or a simple taco salad. For another delicious way to use sweet potatoes, check out this detailed Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chipotle Beef Casserole recipe.
Extra spicy sauce is a versatile condiment. Use it as a dip for veggie sticks or a spread for wraps. It will keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Save any leftover cilantro stems. Finely chop them and stir into the beans next time for extra flavor. The stems have tons of taste.
Nutrition Notes
This meal is a powerhouse. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (without optional avocado).
- High in Fiber: Thanks to the beans and sweet potatoes, this keeps you full.
- Plant-Based Protein: The black beans provide a solid protein punch.
- Rich in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are loaded with Vitamin A.
- It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. The sauce adds a creamy element without any dairy.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Here are answers to the questions I get asked most often.
Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Use about 1.5 cups of cooked black beans. Soak 1/2 cup of dried beans overnight, then simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender. It’s the most budget-friendly way.
How long do the prepped meals last in the fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 4 days. The separate sauce container is key. For the best texture, I don’t recommend freezing the assembled bowls.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
No problem. Just leave the hot sauce out of the creamy sauce. You can use a little lime juice and cumin instead for a tangy, mild flavor. It’s still fantastic.
This meal prep routine has saved me countless dollars and hours. It turns basic, humble ingredients into something truly satisfying. You get a complete, balanced meal without any stress.
Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to eat well on a budget. The spicy sauce really ties it all together. It’s my favorite part. And if you’re craving something warm and creamy, you’ll love this Creamy Vegan Sweet Potato Soup for another dose of healthy comfort food.
Let me know your own money-saving twists for this recipe in the comments below! Did you add something new? Please leave a rating!





