Are you looking for a quick and easy meal solution that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than refried beans! These creamy, comforting legumes are a staple in many Latin American cuisines and can be used as a base for a wide range of delicious dishes. From breakfast to dinner, and even snacks in between, refried beans offer endless possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility of refried beans. Whether you’re in the mood for cheesy quesadillas, savory burritos, or spicy nachos, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations to creative twists, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal and become a new favorite.
Stay tuned for our first recipe: Cheesy Refried Bean Quesadillas – it’s a game-changer!
Cheesy Refried Bean Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with these creamy, cheesy quesadillas packed with refried beans and melted goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup refried beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix refried beans with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with bean mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
5. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is lightly browned and cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Refried Bean and Rice Burritos
Satisfy your hunger with these flavorful and filling burritos packed with refried beans, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or corn)
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the refried beans and cooked rice. Heat through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the bean and rice mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat burrito shape.
7. Serve with shredded cheese on top (if desired). Cook time: 15-20 minutes.
Loaded Refried Bean Nachos
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this simple recipe for loaded refried bean nachos! A classic party favorite, these cheesy, bean-filled tortilla chips are perfect for game days, movie nights, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spread refried beans over the chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beans.
5. Add diced chicken (if using) and chopped cilantro.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and top with sliced jalapeño peppers.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Refried Bean Tacos
Spicy Refried Bean Tacos Recipe
Summary: Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of refried beans with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the refried beans, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
These classic Mexican-inspired enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavorful refried beans and melted cheese wrapped in tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the refried beans and cook until warmed through.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of refried beans onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove foil and top with additional cheese (if desired). Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Refried Bean Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the comfort of refried beans with the sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup refried beans
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix refried beans, cooked rice, cheese, olive oil, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Refried Bean and Avocado Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can refried beans
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 6 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread a spoonful of refried beans onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with diced avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese (if using) is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
7. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 6-8 tostadas
Enjoy your delicious Refried Bean and Avocado Tostadas!
Refried Bean and Corn Salsa Dip
A flavorful and festive dip perfect for parties, gatherings, or game-day snacking. This Refried Bean and Corn Salsa Dip is a delicious twist on traditional salsa, combining the creamy richness of refried beans with the sweetness of fresh corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine refried beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir in lime juice and cumin until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Refried Bean Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with Refried Bean Breakfast Burritos! These burritos are packed with protein-rich refried beans, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup refried beans
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
3. Warm the refried beans according to package instructions or reheat leftover beans from last night’s dinner.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, melt 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over low-medium heat.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning scrambled eggs, refried beans, and melted cheese onto the center of a tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold in the sides and then roll up the burrito to form a neat package.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refried Bean and Chicken Flautas
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful flautas filled with refried beans and shredded chicken. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup refried beans
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together refried beans and shredded chicken.
2. Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean-chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle with some cheese and fold the tortilla into a flauta shape, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the flautas for 2-3 minutes on each side or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Refried Bean and Chorizo Empanadas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of refried beans and chorizo with the flaky, buttery crust of empanadas. Perfect for a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 can refried beans (16 oz)
– 1/2 pound chorizo, cooked and crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add shortening and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until coarse crumbs form.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
6. Place 1 tablespoon refried beans and 1/2 tablespoon chorizo in the center of each disk.
7. Fold dough over filling to form half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Heat about 1/2 inch vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
9. Fry empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refried Bean and Egg Breakfast Tacos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast tacos by combining refried beans, scrambled eggs, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can refried beans (16 oz)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional), salsa, cilantro, or other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, scramble the eggs and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the refried beans and stir to combine with the oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Crack the scrambled eggs into the skillet with the refried beans. Stir until the eggs are fully incorporated.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the bean and egg mixture onto a warmed tortilla, adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Refried Bean and Beef Taco Bake
Refried Bean and Beef Taco Bake: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on Traditional Tacos!
This recipe combines the comfort of refried beans with the bold flavors of ground beef, wrapped up in a crispy taco bake that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup refried beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the refried beans, onion, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Arrange 2-3 corn tortillas in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese (and Monterey Jack, if using).
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Refried Bean and Cheese Tamales
A delicious twist on traditional tamales, these Refried Bean and Cheese Tamales are an easy and satisfying meal or snack. With a flavorful filling and tender masa, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 corn husks
– Masa harina (corn flour) for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine refried beans, shredded cheese, vegetable oil, cumin, paprika, and salt. Mix well.
2. Soak corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes.
3. To assemble tamales, lay a corn husk flat with the wide end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the bean-cheese mixture in the center of the husk.
4. Fold the sides over the filling and then roll the tamale up, starting from the wide end. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Steam tamales for 45-60 minutes or cook them in a pressure cooker for 20-30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Refried Bean and Poblano Chile Rellenos
Transform traditional rellenos with the added flavor of refried beans, perfect for a vegetarian twist. This recipe yields 4-6 stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup refried beans
• 2 large poblano chiles
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast poblano chiles by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and baking for 10-12 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Remove chiles from oven, let cool, then peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into large pieces.
4. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in refried beans until well combined with the onion mixture.
7. Stuff each poblano chile with the bean mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
8. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Refried Bean and Potato Taquitos
Get ready for a flavorful and crunchy snack! These Refried Bean and Potato Taquitos are a delicious twist on traditional taquitos, packed with creamy refried beans, tender potatoes, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup refried beans
– 1 medium potato, cooked and diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together refried beans and diced potatoes.
2. Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean-potato mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the taquito to form a compact shape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry taquitos until golden brown, flipping halfway through (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including preparation and frying time.
Refried Bean and Spinach Queso Dip
A creamy, cheesy dip that combines the flavors of refried beans and spinach with the richness of queso.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) container of refried beans
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or diced tomatoes for added heat or flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine refried beans, spinach, and cumin. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cheese and half-and-half until smooth.
4. Add lime juice and mix well.
5. Combine bean mixture with cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
8. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Refried Bean and Pulled Pork Tostadas
This recipe combines the flavors of tender pulled pork and creamy refried beans on top of crispy tostadas, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can refried beans
– 1 lb pulled pork (cooked)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortillas on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
3. Spread refried beans on top of toasted tortillas.
4. Spoon pulled pork over the beans.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and diced cilantro over the pork.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 flavorful recipes featuring refried beans as the star ingredient! From classic Mexican dishes like quesadillas, burritos, and tacos, to creative twists like stuffed peppers and empanadas, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make meals are perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches. With a variety of bean-based options, you’ll never get bored with the same old recipes. Try making Cheesy Refried Bean Quesadillas, Loaded Refried Bean Nachos, or Spicy Refried Bean Tacos and discover a world of flavors!
