At a time when eggs inch toward a national average of $6 a dozen – a 300% increase since 2019 – and basic grocery bills feel more like luxury spending, a humble staple quietly takes center stage in American kitchens: beans. Strapped for time and money, home cooks are rediscovering just how far a bag of beans can stretch – and how many different ways they can be transformed into satisfying meals.

Beans are the new budget hero

Grocery prices have shot up nearly 25% since 2020. Now, shoppers look for ways to cut costs without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. For many, that means skipping the meat aisle and heading straight to the bulk bins.

A 1-pound bag of dried beans typically costs between $1 and $2, yielding up to six cups of cooked beans. That’s enough for several meals, whether you toss them into soups, mash them for tacos or stir them into a creamy dip. Dishes like black bean soup deliver deep flavor with minimal prep and cost less than $2 per serving, making them a go-to for busy families and solo cooks. From black beans and chickpeas to heirloom varieties you’ve probably never heard of, these pantry powerhouses show up in everything from burritos and stews to pasta dishes and grain bowls.

Social media is in on the bean boom

Social media platforms help drive the trend, with bean-based recipes going viral on TikTok and Instagram. Whether it’s an easy white bean soup or Joe & the Juice’s Tunacado Sandwich gone bean-style with smashed cannellini beans, creators show just how easy – and trendy – it is to cook with legumes.

Beans have become a culinary blank slate. They can take on a wide range of flavors with the right spices or add-ins, from smoky BBQ baked beans to warm Indian dal or zesty Mediterranean salads.

Not just for vegetarians anymore

Beans used to carry the stigma of being poverty food or something only vegans reached for. But in 2025, they’re having a bit of a glow-up.

Beans are no longer just a meat substitute, and the shift is all about more than cost savings. It’s about rethinking what a satisfying meal looks like. For busy families or solo cooks alike, beans offer a grounding base that’s hearty without being heavy, and comforting without costing a fortune.

A global pantry staple gets local love

The growing awareness of global flavors is part of what fuels the resurgence. From Ethiopian shiro to Mexican refried beans, from Italian ceci soups to Middle Eastern ful medames, beans are deeply rooted in food traditions across the world. Now, more Americans pull inspiration from these dishes. Recipes like kitchari – a comforting one-pot meal of lentils, rice and spices – are not only budget friendly but also deeply nourishing and easy to make ahead.

And it’s not just about nostalgia. It’s about survival – and finding joy in the process. The smell of a slow-simmered pot of beans, seasoned with garlic, onion and a bay leaf, is comforting in any culture.

Convenience meets creativity

Canned beans also help fuel this shift. While cooking dried beans from scratch is still the most affordable option, many home cooks skip the soak and opt for canned versions to save time. And in many cases, that’s just fine. For summer cookouts, plant-based eaters lean into options like black bean burgers, which deliver protein, flavor and texture – no grill envy required.

Beans adapt to almost any flavor profile. If you want something spicy, try gochujang chickpeas. Something cozy? Try creamy white bean soup. If you’re craving a snack, you can always roast some chickpeas with smoked paprika and a touch of sea salt.

Beans are built for the future of cooking

As the cost of living rises, many families are stretched thinner than ever. Beans – once a quiet side dish – are stepping in as a reliable, nourishing and affordable main course. They’re climate friendly, rich in protein and endlessly customizable. And it’s not just about saving money. It’s about feeling empowered in the kitchen.

Beans invite creativity and encourage flexibility. They help home cooks, especially those juggling work, kids and everything else, get food on the table without breaking the bank. So the next time you walk the grocery aisles wondering how to stretch your budget – skip the steak. Grab the beans. You might be surprised by how much you don’t miss the meat.

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Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju is a food and travel writer and a global food systems expert based in Seattle. She has lived in or traveled extensively to over 60 countries, and shares stories and recipes inspired by those travels on Urban Farmie.