Easy Mexican Black Bean Casserole

• 16 ounces dried black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 16-oz. jar salsa, plus extra for serving, optional
• 6 ounces shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack
• Tortilla chips for serving, optional

Stir together beans, 4 cups water and salsa, if using, in slow cooker. Cover and cook on high until liquid is absorbed and beans are soft, 4 to 6 hours.

Sprinkle cheese over beans, cover and continue to cook until cheese is melted, 5 to 10 minutes. Spoon into bowls, top with additional salsa and serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

I made rice to go with this as well. You can mix it all together or serve them separate- which is what I do because my kids only eat the rice.