Tex-Mex Refried Beans
Creamy, savory refried beans with a hint of spice, just like your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant. Made from scratch in under 20 minutes, they're the perfect side for tacos, burritos, or nachos.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat the lard or oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Once shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Bloom the Spices
- b.Stir in the ground cumin and chili powder.
- c.Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step, known as blooming, deepens their flavor.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the Beans
- b.Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans to the skillet, along with 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth.
- c.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- d.Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the beans cook for 5-7 minutes to soften and absorb the flavors.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Mash and Finish
- b.Uncover the skillet. Use a potato masher or the back of a sturdy spoon to mash the beans directly in the pan to your desired consistency.
- c.For a chunkier texture, mash less. For smoother beans, mash more thoroughly or use an immersion blender.
- d.Stir in the salt and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring, for another 2-3 minutes until the beans have thickened.
- e.If the beans become too thick, stir in a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Transfer the hot refried beans to a serving dish.
- c.Garnish with crumbled cotija cheese and freshly chopped cilantro, if using.
- d.Serve immediately as a side for your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use lard or bacon drippings. They add a richness that vegetable oil can't replicate.
- 2Control the consistency by adjusting the liquid. Add more water or broth for creamier beans, or cook them a bit longer for thicker, dip-able beans.
- 3Don't skip rinsing the canned beans. This removes excess sodium and the 'canned' taste, resulting in a fresher flavor.
- 4For an even deeper flavor, use the reserved liquid from a can of beans (if low-sodium) instead of water.
- 5These beans are perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They will thicken as they cool; simply add a splash of water when reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Refried Beans
Sauté 1 finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onion for a significant kick of heat. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices.
Smoky Refried BeansSmoky Refried Beans
Add 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder along with the cumin and chili powder for a deep, smoky flavor.
Vegan Refried BeansVegan Refried Beans
To make this recipe vegan, simply use vegetable oil or a neutral vegan butter instead of lard and omit the cotija cheese garnish or use a plant-based alternative.
Refried Black BeansRefried Black Beans
Substitute the pinto beans with two cans of black beans for a different but equally delicious version. Follow the recipe as written.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Pinto beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein
These beans provide a substantial amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and overall body function.
Packed with Micronutrients
Pinto beans are a good source of essential micronutrients like folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium, which play vital roles in energy production, red blood cell formation, and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions
One serving (approximately 1/2 cup) of these refried beans contains about 160-180 calories, depending on the type of fat used (lard is slightly higher in calories than vegetable oil).