If you're a fan of the smoky and spicy flavors of pinto beans from Chipotle, you're in for a treat. In this easy copycat recipe, we'll show you how to recreate the delicious chipotle pinto beans in the comfort of your own kitchen using the Instant Pot. We hope you enjoy this family-favorite side dish as much as we do!

Spoonful of chipotle pinto beans close up hero shot

Pinto beans are a popular legume in Mexican cuisine, known for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Chipotle's pinto beans are infused with the smoky and spicy essence of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This combination adds a depth of flavor to the beans, making them a perfect addition to various dishes like burritos, and tacos, or simply enjoyed as a side dish. Now you can easily recreate this restaurant favorite with our simple copycat recipe.

Why we love this recipe:

It's quick - Pinto beans are one of our favorite pantry staples! With the help of the Instant Pot, you can have a large batch of flavorful copycat Chipotle pinto beans ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop cooking.
It's tasty - The smoky and spicy flavors of chipotle peppers will keep you coming back for more.
It's easy - This recipe requires minimal effort and is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
It's versatile - Use the chipotle pinto beans as a side dish, a filling for burrito bowls or tacos, or as a flavorful addition to your favorite Mexican-inspired bowls.

Looking for more amazing Mexican recipes? Try out these Healthy Air Fryer Tostadas or this delicious Cowboy Caviar dip. Crave the kick in chipotle spices? Then you'll love this Chipotle Seasoning for Chicken recipe or this quick and easy Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe.

Jump to:

What Ingredients Will You Need?
Instructions
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
How Should You Store This?
What Are Some Expert Tips?
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Frequently Asked Questions
📖 Recipe
Important Food Safety Tips
💬 Share Your Thoughts

What Ingredients Will You Need?

Pinto beans - Creamy legumes that form the base of this dish.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce - Smoked and dried jalapeño peppers packed in a tangy and spicy tomato-based sauce.
Ancho chili powder - Known for its slightly sweet and smoky flavor.
Onion - Adds savory flavor to the beans.
Garlic - Enhances the overall taste and aroma.
Cumin - A ground spice that adds warmth and depth to the dish.
Bay Leaf - Bay leaves infuse a subtle earthy flavor and aroma.
Oregano - (or Mexican oregano if you have it on hand)
Vegetable bouillon cubes - Plus added water provides the liquid base for cooking the beans. *You could also use vegetable broth.
Olive oil - To saute the onion.
Kosher salt - Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black Pepper - To taste.

Optional

Lime juice - Adds a slight tang that enhances the overall flavor.

Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.

Instructions

How to Make this Easy Chipotle Pinto Beans Recipe in the Instant Pot

STEP ONE: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the pinto beans under cold water to remove any debris. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Additionally, chop the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (or leave them whole for removal later).

STEP TWO: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode until it reaches medium heat. Add the olive oil and chopped onion to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and saute for one more minute.

STEP THREE: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Now, add the other ingredients. Put the rinsed pinto beans, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, bay leaves, salt, pepper, vegetable cubes, and water into the Instant Pot.

STEP FOUR: Pressure Cook the Beans

Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure. Cook the beans for 60 minutes under high pressure. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release. Remove bay leaves and serve warm.

What Are Some Good Substitutions?

Beans - If you don't have dried pinto beans, you can use canned pinto beans instead. Simply drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time per Instant Pot recommendations, as the canned beans are already cooked.
Diet - For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit any animal-based toppings and garnish with vegan alternatives like dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream.
Broth - Chicken broth can be substituted for vegetable broth.

How Can You Change This Recipe Up?

Soup - Turn these chipotle pinto beans into a comforting and hearty soup. After cooking, blend a portion of the beans with some broth until smooth. Return the mixture to the pot, add diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and your choice of spices. Simmer briefly to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot fresh cilantro and lime.
Dip - Transform the chipotle pinto beans into a creamy and flavorful dip. Mash the cooked beans with a fork or blend them in a food processor until smooth. Add some diced tomatoes, chopped jalapeños, and shredded cheese for extra texture and flavor. Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks for a tasty appetizer.
Bowls - Create a wholesome and satisfying meal by serving the chipotle pinto beans over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa with your favorite protein. Top with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and salsa or guacamole.

What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?

_{This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.}

Instant pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Serving bowls and utensils
Stick blender or hand blender (optional)

How Should You Store This?

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

These chipotle pinto beans are freezer-friendly. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.

What Are Some Expert Tips?

If you prefer a milder dish, start with one chipotle pepper and gradually add more to suit your taste. Remember that the heat level of chipotle peppers can vary, so taste and adjust accordingly.
While not necessary for this pinto bean recipe, you can soak the dried pinto beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility.
For a thicker sauce, employ a hand blender to blend a small portion of the beans or alternatively, you can gently crush them with a spoon directly in the pot.
Get creative with your toppings! Add diced red onions, sliced jalapeno, a variety of cheeses, and more.
Freeze batches of chipotle pinto beans in small containers and enjoy the convenience of having delicious beans on hand whenever you need them.

More Recipes You'll Love ♥️

Have Leftover Ingredients?

Leftover chipotle pinto beans can be used as a filling for quesadillas or empanadas. Simply spread the beans on a tortilla or pastry dough, add cheese or your favorite fillings, and cook until golden and crispy.
Incorporate the beans into a hearty chili by adding them along with other vegetables, spices, and broth. Let it simmer for a flavorful and comforting meal.
Create a Tex-Mex-inspired salad by tossing the beans with mixed greens, diced tomatoes, avocado, corn, and a tangy lime dressing. Top it with some tortilla strips for added crunch.

In The Mood For a Similar Dish?

Need Something To Pair This With?

Serve the chipotle pinto beans over steamed cilantro lime rice for a complete and filling meal.
Warm up some tortillas and use them to make delicious bean tacos or burritos.
For a protein-packed meal, serve the chipotle pinto beans alongside grilled chicken or steak using this delicious chipotle seasoning.

More dinner recipes you will love:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make chipotle pinto beans without an Instant Pot?

Simply soak pinto beans overnight, then cook them in a pot with chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, onion, garlic, cumin, and salt for 1-1.5 hours or until tender.

Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried beans?

Yes! Rinse and drain the beans, then sauté them with onion and garlic. Add in chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and a little broth. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Should I soak dried pinto beans before cooking them?

It is not necessary, but it does help to soften them. It also reduces the cooking time and makes them easier to digest.

How many cups of dry beans equal one pound?

One pound of beans is approximately equal to 2 cups. However, it's important to note that the volume of beans may vary slightly depending on the specific type of bean.

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Important Food Safety Tips

Create a clean work area.
Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
Never leave cooking food unattended.
Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

Easy Chipotle Pinto Beans Recipe in the Instant Pot