This homemade Refried Beans from Scratch recipe is the easiest way to get rich, creamy refried beans packed with flavor—without standing over the stove. This simple refried beans recipe uses dried pinto beans and the Instant Pot to create a restaurant-quality side that’s healthier than canned and perfect for tacos, burritos, or meal prep.
Love beans? Have you tried our Easy Chipotle Beans Recipe in the Instant Pot?
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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.
If you like this Mexican recipe, you may also love our Vegetarian Quesadillas with Black Beans and Corn, Chicken Tinga Enchiladas or our Air Fryer Tostadas Mexicans with Homemade or Canned Refried Beans.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side dish, dip, or filling for burritos and tacos. Serve these beans with a simple Tomato and Avocado Salad and 3 Ingredient Quesadilla for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the rich, savory flavor of these beans.
Homemade Refried Beans Ingredients
- 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.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- 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.
- Diet: Make it vegan by using vegetable oil instead of butter and vegetable broth.
How to Make Refried Beans from Scratch
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.
STEP TWO: Seal and Pressure Cook
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 3: 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 4: 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.
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.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to get a creamy consistency.
Storage
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. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Recipe FAQs
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.
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📖 Recipe
Homemade Refried Beans from Scratch (Instant Pot Recipe)
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.
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