Refried Beans (Quick + Easy Recipe) - The Simple Veganista (2024)

This homemade vegan refried beans recipe is made on the stovetop using canned pinto beans and is quick, easy to make and ready in just 20 minutes. They are versatile and perfect with all your favorite Mexican inspired recipes!

I’m making my way through all the different ways to make homemade vegan refried beans!

In this recipe we’ll be using canned beans, making it a quick and easy recipe that’s ready in about 20 minutes. Plus, they are vegan, gluten free, and low fat with an option to be oil free!

If you prefer making your beans from scratch with dried beans and have a little time be sure check out these:

• Instant Pot Refried Beans
• Slow Cooker Refried Beans

These longer cooking recipes yield the most flavor, but this quick and easy stovetop method is pretty darn good too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe involves cooking canned pinto beans, onion, garlic, cumin and chili powder into a thick and creamy refried beans that is perfect for all you favorite Mexican inspired dishes.

Here is everything you’ll need:

• Canned Pinto Beans – Use 2 (15 oz.) or 1 (28 oz) cans. If you prefer black beans, by all means use those as they work just as well.
• Onion – 1/2 small onion is all you need, but feel free to use the whole onion.
• Garlic – A couple of garlic cloves add another layer of delicious flavor.
• Cumin – I find 1/2 teaspoon is perfect, but if you love cumin flavor double the amount.
• Chili Powder – This adds more depth of flavor. I like to change it up sometimes with chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
• Water or Veggie Broth – Use either or. The veggie broth will add the most flavor.
• Salt – Don’t skimp on the salt. I use pink mineral salt which adds essential minerals and trace elements. It’s delicious and I find I don’t need as much as traditional table salt.
• Lime – Will be added at the end adding an overall brightness and finishing touch.

How To Make Vegan Refried Beans

• Saute. In a medium sauce pan, heat oil or water, saute onions for 5 minutes, add garlic saute for 1 more minute.
• Add remaining ingredients. Add in the beans, spices and water (shown above), bring to a simmer for 5 minutes or so.
• Leave the beans as is for a ranchero or charro style bean or continue to next step.
• Puree or mash the beans. My favorite way to puree the beans is using an immersion blenderas shown below. You can also mash them using the back of a fork or slotted spoon, or potato masher. But I find the stick blender does the best at breaking down the beans into a nice creamy texture. Use your preferred method.
• Warm the beans on low if needed and add the lime juice. Beans will thicken as they cool. Add more water as needed to thin.

How To Store + Reheat

Homemade refried beans will last in the refrigerator for 4 – 5 days stored in a covered container. Reheat them in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often.

Can You Freeze Refried Beans?

Yes! They freeze beautifully for 2 – 3 months. To freeze, let the beans cool completely. Divide the leftovers into quart-sized freezer bags or freezer-safe containers, with about 1/2 inch space from the top for expansion. Let thaw in the refrigerator the night before you want to serve them.

Serving Suggestions

Easy to make, and even easier to eat, these refried beans are super versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few of my favorite options:

• Serve them with theseEasy Portobello Fajitas orPoblano Taco Sliders
• Use them in thisKale + Quinoa Burrito Bowl
• They fit right in with this
• Serve with (Freezer Friendly)
• Use them in this Vegan 7 Layer Mexican Dip
• Or serve them as a simple chip dip or in this Nacho Bowl!
• Serve with Cilantro Lime Rice.
• Serve them alongside this Tofu Scramble Stuffed Poblanosor Southwest Tofu Scramble.

If you try this easy refried beans recipe, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.

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