This Cheesy Masala Beans on Toast is a spicy, cheesy twist on the classic British beans on toast. Loaded with Indian-inspired flavors like cumin, garam masala, and chili, these saucy beans are served over crispy toasted bread and topped with melty cheese. It’s the ultimate fusion comfort food for breakfast, brunch, or a quick meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold & Flavorful – Spiced masala beans with a cheesy finish.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 15 minutes with pantry staples.
- Protein-Packed – Beans provide a satisfying and hearty meal.
- Comfort Food with a Twist – A fusion of British and Indian flavors.
- Customizable – Adjust spice levels, cheese, or toppings!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Masala Beans:
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) baked beans (or white beans in tomato sauce)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For Serving:
- 2-3 slices thick bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche)
- ½ cup grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting bread)
- 1 tsp chopped green onions (optional garnish)
Directions
1. Cook the Masala Beans
- Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
- Add onions, garlic, and green chili, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder; cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in baked beans, tomato paste, salt, and sugar, stirring well.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Toast the Bread
- Butter both sides of the bread slices.
- Toast in a skillet or oven until crispy and golden brown.
3. Assemble & Add Cheese
- Spoon the masala beans over toasted bread.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until melted, or cover the pan to melt the cheese.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions.
- Serve hot with a side of chai or coffee!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Extra Spicy – Add more chili powder or hot sauce.
- Vegan Option – Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese.
- Creamy Version – Stir in 1 tbsp coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Egg Masala Beans – Top with a fried or poached egg.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store masala beans in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
FAQs
Can I use canned white beans instead of baked beans?
Yes! Add extra tomato paste and a pinch of sugar for sweetness.
How do I make it less spicy?
Omit the green chili and reduce chili powder.
Can I use naan instead of toast?
Absolutely! Naan or paratha works great.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra spice.
How do I prevent soggy toast?
Toast the bread well and serve immediately.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the beans in advance and reheat before serving.
What should I serve with this?
Great with a fried egg, salad, or roasted potatoes.
Can I add protein?
Yes! Stir in chicken, tofu, or paneer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make it GF-friendly.
How do I enhance the flavor?
Add a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Masala Beans on Toast is a spicy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, this fusion dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!
PrintCheesy Masala Beans on Toast
A spicy and flavorful twist on the classic beans on toast, this version features masala-spiced beans, melty cheese, and crispy toast for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a quick and hearty breakfast, brunch, or snack!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 people 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: Indian-British Fusion
Ingredients
For the Masala Beans:
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder for spice)
- 1 can (14 oz) baked beans (or use canned white beans + ½ cup tomato sauce)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
For the Toast & Topping:
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole grain)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting the bread)
Instructions
1. Cook the Masala Beans
- Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add garam masala, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the baked beans, season with salt and black pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
2. Prepare the Toast
- Butter the bread slices and toast them in a pan or toaster until golden brown.
- Spoon the masala beans evenly over the toast.
3. Add Cheese & Bake (Optional for Extra Meltiness)
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Place under a broiler or in a hot oven (200°C / 400°F) for 2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
4. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and chili flakes, and enjoy hot!
Notes
- Make it spicy by adding chopped green chilies while cooking the beans.
- Make it vegan by using vegan cheese and oil instead of butter.
- For extra protein, add a fried egg on top!