Easy Homemade Refried Beans

A bowl of creamy Easy Homemade Refried Beans garnished with lime wedges and melting butter on top. — Easy Homemade Refried Beans served warm with lime and butter—your go-to side for every taco night.

Easy Homemade Refried Beans are the creamy, savory sidekick every taco night needs. This easy recipe takes simple pantry staples and turns them into something truly satisfying—rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful in just one pan.

Whether you’re layering them into burritos, serving them as a cozy side, or spooning them onto nachos, this version delivers velvety texture and balanced flavor in under 15 minutes. The sautéed onion and garlic lay down a flavorful base, while cumin and chili powder add warmth. A touch of butter and lime juice at the end brings everything together for a truly restaurant-quality finish—without any of the fuss.

Interestingly, despite the name, refried beans aren’t fried twice. The term comes from the Spanish “frijoles refritos,” which means “well-fried beans”—referring to the method of pan-cooking them until creamy. Our version keeps it healthy, quick, and packed with flavor.

So the next time you’re building a Mexican-inspired meal, skip the can and go for these Easy Homemade Refried Beans—your taste buds will thank you.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1½ cans, drained and rinsed)
½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water)
½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chili powder
¾ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for richness)
Juice of ½ lime

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sauté the aromatics:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute more, just until fragrant.

2. Add beans and simmer:
Add the pinto beans and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and liquid to reduce slightly.

3. Mash to desired texture:
Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the beans directly in the pan until mostly smooth with a few chunks for texture. Add more broth, 1 tbsp at a time, if needed for a creamier consistency.

4. Finish and serve:
Turn off heat. Stir in butter and lime juice until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm as a side, taco filling, or layer in burritos or bowls.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

Use freshly cooked beans for best flavor: While canned beans work well, freshly cooked pinto beans create an even richer, silkier texture.
Control the consistency: If your refried beans are too thick, add more broth or water, 1 tbsp at a time, until creamy and spreadable.
Don’t skip the lime juice: That splash of acidity at the end brightens the flavor and balances the richness beautifully.

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