Go Back
+ servings
Mexican refried beans cooked with pinto beans

Refried Beans

Creamy, flavorful refried beans made from scratch! A versatile Mexican staple perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 6gFat: 5gSodium: 300mgFiber: 6g

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked pinto beans or 1 can, drained & rinsed
  • 2 tbsp oil vegetable oil or lard for authentic flavor
  • ½ small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup water or broth as needed for consistency
  • 1 tbsp lime juice optional, for brightness

Instructions
 

  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Add beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Mash with a potato masher or the back of a spoon, leaving some texture.
  • Add water or broth, a little at a time, until smooth and creamy. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
  • Stir in lime juice if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve warm! Enjoy as a side, dip, or taco filling.

Notes

  • You can use black beans, kidney beans, or even navy beans for a different flavor and texture.
  • To make it vegan, use vegetable oil instead of lard.
  • Add a spoon of sour cream or cheese at the end for a creamy version.
  • Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
Keyword Cinco de mayo food, holiday side dish, Mexican recipes, vegan recipe, vegetarian recipe
Love this recipe?Let us know how it turned out!