Homemade Refried Beans from Scratch (Instant Pot Recipe)

easy and authentic mexican refried beans instant pot feature image close up with Monterey Jack cheese and cilantro in a decorative bowl

5 from 1 vote

Homemade Refried Beans from Scratch (Instant Pot Recipe)

Homemade Refried Beans from Scratch is a creamy Instant Pot refried bean recipe made with dried pinto beans, butter, onion, and bouillon. It works well for taco nights, meal prep, and homemade Mexican sides. The beans cook until tender and blend into a rich, smooth texture with deep, savory flavor.

Prep Time10

Cook Time1 30

Total Time1 40

Course: side

Cuisine: Mexican

Servings:

Calories: 315kcal

Author: Jami Powell

Equipment

Instant Pot
Potato masher
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Ingredients

3 cups dried beans pinto or black beans
½ medium onion whole
2 tablespoons Better than Chicken Bouillon paste
1 stick unsalted 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.

Video

Notes

Cooking Notes

Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps the beans finish cooking evenly and stay tender. Adding the reserved cooking liquid gradually gives you more control over the final texture.

Tips for Best Results:

Rinse and sort the dried beans before cooking.
Reserve extra cooking liquid before blending the beans.
Blend gradually while adding butter for a smoother consistency.
Adjust the texture slowly with the reserved liquid instead of adding too much at once.

How to Know It’s Ready:

The beans should blend smoothly and hold a creamy texture without looking dry or watery.

Nutrition