If you're searching for a delicious and authentic side dish to pair with your meals, look no further than our Easy and Authentic Mexican Refried Beans Recipe (Instant Pot). This straightforward recipe is a game-changer for busy families and home cooks, offering a flavorful and nutritious option that's quick to prepare.
Refried beans, known as "frijoles refritos" in Spanish, are a staple in Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, they are made by cooking pinto or black beans, then mashing and frying them. This dish is rich in flavor, making it a favorite for many Mexican meals.
The use of an Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy authentic refried beans with minimal effort.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber and protein from beans, it's a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side dish, dip, or filling for burritos and tacos.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the rich, savory flavor of these beans.
If you like this Mexican recipe, you may also love Mexican rice or enchiladas.
Jump to:
What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Beans: Pinto beans are classic, but black beans work well too. They provide the base for our refried beans.
- Onion: Adds a depth of flavor. We use half an onion, which is later removed.
- Bouillon Paste: Improves the savory taste of the beans.
- Butter: Adds richness and creaminess.
- Water: Essential for cooking the beans.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make an Instant Pot Mexican Refried Beans Recipe
STEP ONE: Prepare the Beans
Rinse and sort the beans to remove any debris. Place the beans, whole onion, bouillon paste, and enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches (approximately 8 cups) into the Instant Pot.
Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before opening the lid.
STEP TWO: Remove the Onion
Carefully remove the whole onion from the beans and discard. Drain the beans, reserving 2-3 cups of the cooking liquid.
STEP THREE: Blend the Beans
Using an immersion blender, blend the beans in the Instant Pot until they reach your desired consistency. While blending, gradually add the butter until it is fully incorporated. If the beans are too thick, add some of the reserved cooking liquid, ½ cup at a time, until the beans are smooth and creamy.
STEP FOUR: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Serve hot as a side dish or use as a filling for burritos, tacos, or other dishes.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Beans: Use black beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Bouillon Cubes: Use vegetable broth or chicken broth instead.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Make it vegan by using vegetable oil instead of butter and vegetable broth.
- Flavor: Add cumin, garlic powder, or chili powder for extra spice.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese.
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
- Potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
How Should You Store This?
Store leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
If you prefer a chunky texture, use a potato masher instead of a blender to mash the beans.
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover beans to make this Easy Chipotle Beans Recipe in the Instant Pot.
- Incorporate leftover refried beans in a Layered Taco Dip.
- Add refried beans and eggs to a protein-packed breakfast burrito.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Serve with this Mexican Red Rice Recipe and grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Pair with tacos or burritos as a flavorful side.
- Enjoy alongside a fresh Tomato and Avocado Side Salad for a lighter option.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Easy Baked Chicken Tinga Enchiladas
- 3 Ingredient Quesadilla Recipe
- Easy Vegetarian Quesadillas with Black Beans and Corn
- Healthy Air Fryer Tostadas Mexicans with Homemade or Canned Refried Beans
Related
More Mexican recipes you will love:
FAQ
Yes, you can make refried beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Pinto beans are traditionally used for refried beans due to their creamy texture and mild flavor. However, black beans can also be used for a slightly different taste and texture.
An immersion blender is a great tool for making refried beans smoother. Blend the beans to your desired consistency, and add more cooking liquid if needed to achieve a creamy texture.
Refried beans can be used as a filling for tacos and burritos, or spread over tortilla chips for nachos. They can be added to quesadillas and make a great dip when topped with cheese, tomatoes, and jalapeños. For a quick meal, try them on Mexican pizzas or crispy tostadas with lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado.
📖 Recipe
Easy and Authentic Mexican Refried Beans Recipe (Instant Pot)
Equipment
- Potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 3 cups dried beans pinto or black beans
- ½ onion whole
- 2 tablespoons Better than Chicken Bouillon paste
- 1 stick butter
- 8 cups water
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse and sort the beans to remove any debris.
- Add the beans, whole onion, bouillon paste, and enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches to the Instant Pot (approximately 8 cups). Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before opening the lid.
- Carefully remove the whole onion from the beans and discard. Drain the beans, reserving 2-3 cups of the cooking liquid.
- While blending the beans with an immersion blender, gradually add the butter until it is fully incorporated. Continue blending until the beans reach your desired consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add ½ cup at a time of the reserved cooking liquid until the beans are smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Serve hot as a side dish or use as a filling for burritos, tacos, or other dishes.
Notes
- Beans: Use black beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Bouillon Cubes: Use vegetable broth or chicken broth instead.
Nutrition
This Instant Pot Mexican Refried Beans Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a delicious and authentic dish to their meal repertoire.
Give it a try, share your results, and explore more related recipes on our blog!
Important Food Safety Tips
Make sure ingredients are fresh and beans are cooked thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses. Store leftovers promptly and reheat to a safe temperature before consuming.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- 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.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
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