Quick and Easy Refried Beans Recipe

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Quick and Easy Refried Beans provide perfect solutions when you don't like canned versions and are short on time, offering easy and delicious alternatives to commercial products with superior taste. This practical recipe demonstrates how homemade versions can surpass commercial alternatives while accommodating time constraints through efficient preparation methods. The perfect designation reflects superior quality while the convenience ensures accessibility for busy schedules.

A large bowl of refried beans, garnished with chopped cilantro

These refried beans are perfect if you don’t like the canned ones and you’re short on time. They’re easy and delicious!

Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Servings:
6
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These shortcut refried beans are easy to make and even easier to eat. 

How to Make Refried Beans

You’ll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let’s go over the basics:

What Are Refried Beans?

Though the name “refried beans” implies the beans are fried twice, they’re actually only fried once. Traditionally, pinto beans are cooked and mashed, then fried on the stove until thick. This recipe starts with canned beans, which cuts the cooking time considerably.

How to Season Refried Beans

These homemade refried beans are flavored with fresh garlic, ground cumin, ground chili powder, salt, and fresh lime juice. 

How Do You Make Refried Beans? 

Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make refried beans at home: 

  1. Cook the garlic in a skillet.
  2. Stir in the beans and seasonings. 
  3. Smash the beans with a potato masher, then squeeze lime juice over the beans and stir.

How to Store Refried Beans

Store the refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. 

Can You Freeze Refried Beans?

Sure! You can freeze refried beans for up to three months. Freeze them in serving-sized portions in zip-top bags or another freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. 

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise 

“This is an amazing recipe,” according to Miz Bonnie . “The best refried beans EVER! So easy and fast and tastes just as good as the ones made from dried beans. It’s now my very favorite refried bean recipe!”

“I love how quick and easy this recipe is,” says Nic . “Great to throw together at the last minute or when you don’t feel like cooking. I added some onion but pretty much stuck with the recipe. Good stuff.”

“I absolutely love this recipe,” raves Courtney J . “Super fast and convenient. And it tastes amazing. I’m never going back!”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams

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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled

  • 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • salt to taste

  • ½ lime, juiced

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients.

    all ingredients gathered to make refried beans

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  2. Heat canola oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat.

  3. Cook garlic cloves in hot oil, turning once, until brown on both sides, 4 to 5 minutes. Smash garlic cloves in the skillet with a fork.

    garlic browned and mashed with a fork

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  4. Stir pinto beans, cumin, chili powder, and salt into mashed garlic and cook until beans are thoroughly heated, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.

    all ingredients added to skillet, and stirred until heated through

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  5. Smash bean mixture with a potato masher to desired texture. Squeeze lime juice over smashed beans and stir until combined.

    beans mashed to desired texture

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  6. Enjoy!

    a large bowl of refried beans, garnished with chopped cilantro

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

132 Calories
6g Fat
16g Carbs
5g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 132
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6g7%
Saturated Fat 1g3%
Sodium 323mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 16g6%
Dietary Fiber 5g17%
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 5g10%
Vitamin C 3mg3%
Calcium 50mg4%
Iron 2mg10%
Potassium 264mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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