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Refried Beans Recipe

Homemade Refried Beans

This simple refried beans recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 25 minutes using pantry staples. Creamy, flavorful, and far superior to store-bought versions, these beans are perfect as a side dish or filling for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup yellow or white onion finely chopped (about 1/2 small onion)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cans pinto beans 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice about 1/2 medium lime

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and salt. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions become translucent and tender. Properly cooked onions create the creamy foundation.
  2. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This brief cooking time releases the spices' essential oils without burning them.
  3. Add drained pinto beans and water to the pan. Stir well, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. This step allows the beans to absorb the flavors while softening further.
  4. Reduce heat to low and remove the lid. Use a potato masher or fork to mash at least half the beans. Continue cooking uncovered for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Mash to your preferred consistency.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as needed. If beans seem too thick, add a splash of water.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover beans in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of water when reheating as they thicken when cold.
Variations: Add minced jalapeño for heat, bell pepper for extra flavor, or smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
Serving suggestions: Use as a side dish, dip for tortilla chips, or filling for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.