Side Dish & Snacks

Easy Refried Beans Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Easy Refried Beans Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cold-pressed olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced or crushed; 1/2 cup finely diced yellow or white onion; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin seeds; 2 cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed, or 3 cups cooked pinto beans; 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

Charlotte Shapiro April 20, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 25 mins

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If you’re looking to elevate your meal, I’ve got some great pairing ideas for your easy refried beans. First on the list is tacos. Picture it: a soft corn tortilla filled to the brim with your favorite ingredients, topped with a generous spoonful of those creamy refried beans. It creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Next up are nachos. Layer some crunchy tortilla chips with refried beans, gooey cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite salsa.

Now that’s comfort food taken up a notch! And we can’t forget about quesadillas. Simply spread a layer of these beans between two tortillas, add cheese, and grill until golden. It’s a quick and satisfying meal.

Now, let’s dive right into our irresistible easy refried beans recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s break it down. Here are four solid reasons why this recipe is a winner.

1. Simple Ingredients: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that tastes far more complex. From garlic and onion to spices like chili powder and cumin, these staples are often found in your pantry.

2. Quick Preparation: Life’s busy. I get it! This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal rather than spend it slaving away in the kitchen.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, you can have this ready when needed.

3. Versatility: This recipe isn’t strict. You can use these beans in different dishes. Whether you want to make a burrito, serve them as a side, or create a nacho platter, the options are endless. You can modify them based on what you enjoy.

4. Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, these refried beans are not just delicious; they are nutritious. Using olive oil and controlling the spices means you can keep it healthy while still indulging in great taste.

How Does It Taste Like?

Flavor-wise, these refried beans are a dream. The combination of the savory onion and garlic with the warm, earthy spices creates a symphony of taste.

They are creamy from the cooking process and can be personalized with additional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.

Imagine taking a bite—soft and creamy, with just the right kick. If you love flavor but want something comforting, these beans deliver.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Easy Refried Beans Variations?

What makes this refried beans recipe unique is the method. Instead of following traditional heavy techniques, this version maximizes flavor with minimal effort. Using canned beans is a game changer.

This saves time while keeping the taste intact. The addition of apple cider vinegar introduces a bright note, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overshadowing the beans.

Additionally, I personally love to balance the spices carefully so they’re present but not overpowering. You can adjust the heat to suit your taste buds, making it universally appealing.

The Ingredients

So, what will you need? Here is the straightforward list:

1 tablespoon cold-pressed olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
½ cup finely diced yellow or white onion (about ½ small onion)
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground chili powder
¼ teaspoon ground cumin seeds
2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed, or 3 cups cooked pinto beans
½ cup water or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (about ½ medium lime), adjust to taste

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious refried beans in no time.

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating that tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant. The aroma will have your taste buds tingling.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic, salt, chili powder, and cumin. Stir this mixture for about a minute. You want the spices to bloom, filling your kitchen with their warmth.

Step 3: Incorporate the Beans

Now it’s time for the stars of the show. Add the pinto beans to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the onion and spices. Allow them to heat through for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour in the water or vegetable broth gradually, mixing continuously. You want to create a creamy, slightly thick texture. If it appears dry, add a bit more liquid.

Step 5: Mash and Adjust

Once heated, it’s time to mash them. You can use a potato masher for a rustic texture or a blender or food processor for smoothness. I prefer a mix of the two for some chunkiness. Adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or apple cider vinegar as needed.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Finally, mix in the fresh cilantro. That bright note will elevate the flavor to perfection. Serve warm, and watch how everyone reaches for seconds.

Notes

Here are some valuable tips that can help you master these beans:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality spices make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Rinse Canned Beans: Always rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium.
Adjust Thickness: If the beans are too thick, add a little more broth or water until your desired consistency is reached.
Storage: These beans can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead option.
Freezing: They freeze beautifully! Store in an airtight container for up to three months.

How Do You Store This Easy Refried Beans?

Storing refried beans is easy. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they should stay good for about three months.

To reheat, you can warm them up on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back that creamy texture. Fast and efficient!

Sides for Easy Refried Beans

If you’re looking to create a full meal, here are some perfect sides:

1. Spanish Rice: This dish pairs beautifully with refried beans. The fluffy rice, often flavored with tomatoes and spices, complements the creamy texture of the beans.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Think zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, grilled to perfection. They add a smoky flavor and a colorful presentation.

3. Fresh Guacamole or Salsa: A zesty avocado dip or a fresh salsa brings that extra flavor boost. The acidity cuts through the richness of the beans.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you’re running low on something, don’t worry! Here are some alternatives:

1. Different Beans: If pinto beans are not available, black beans or kidney beans can work well in this recipe. They will offer a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.

2. Olive Oil Substitute: You can use any neutral oil like avocado or coconut oil if you don’t have olive oil on hand.

3. Fresh Herbs: If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley or green onions can provide a fresh finish.

4. Lime Juice Replacement: You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a similar bright note.

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, healthy, and tasty recipe for easy refried beans that should find a place in every kitchen. These beans deserve a spot on your table, whether as a side dish, a filling for tacos, or a flavorful dip.

Cooking can be fun and fulfilling without being complicated. I hope this recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and whip up something you’ll love. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!

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Print Recipe

Easy Refried Beans Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Side Dish & Snacks

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 181 kcal

Description

Cooking should be enjoyable, right?

I believe in recipes that are straightforward and don’t require a culinary degree to master. Today, I’ll share a fantastic and easy recipe for refried beans that has become a staple in my kitchen.

These refried beans are creamy, flavorful, and versatile. Use them as a side dish, in tacos, or even as a dip. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to whip it up time and time again.

Why are refried beans so special? They have a rich, hearty texture and a savory flavor profile, making them perfect for various dishes. Let’s explore why you’ll love this recipe.