Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe
Love Taco Bell? Try this Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe made with pinto beans, garlic, cumin, and oil for an easy homemade favorite.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans or 1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder optional
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for umami depth
- 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
- 1 –2 tablespoons bean cooking liquid for thinner texture
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Oil and Spices
- Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder if using. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom gently in the oil.
Step 2: Add Beans and Liquid
- Add the pinto beans and water or broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. The beans should soften and begin absorbing the seasoning.
Step 3: Mash Until Creamy
- Use a potato masher to mash the beans directly in the pot until smooth. For an ultra-creamy texture similar to the classic Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe, an immersion blender works beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer and Adjust
- Lower the heat and let the beans simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring often. Add more liquid if needed and adjust salt to taste.
Step 5: Serve Warm
- Remove from heat and serve immediately. The beans will thicken slightly as they cool, creating that signature creamy consistency.