Dell'S Refried Beans
Creamy and savory refried beans with crispy bacon, ideal as a hearty side or dip, packed with smoky flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the red kidney beans until mushy, adding 1 tablespoon of oil during cooking.
- Fry the bacon until crisp, then cool and crumble it.
- Save the bacon grease from the pan.
- Mash or blend the cooked beans until smooth.
- Add the crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper to the beans and mix well.
- Add the bacon grease and blend again, or mash the mixture until desired consistency is reached.
Tips & Substitutions
For richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta. If you're short on time, canned kidney beans can be a quick substitute; just skip the cooking step and mash them directly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that bacon adds its own saltiness. For a vegetarian version, use olive oil and add spices like cumin and chili powder for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these refried beans as a side dish with tacos or alongside a Southwestern Stir-Fry for a complete meal. They're also excellent in breakfast burritos or as a topping for Mexican omelets. Garnish with fresh cilantro or diced jalapeños for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover refried beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and warmth. Stir gently over low heat on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dell'S Refried Beans contains roughly 1042 calories, with 2g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the refried beans in advance. Once cooked and mashed, let them cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. They can be made a day or two ahead of your meal, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To increase the spice level, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beans while mashing. For a milder flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado on top. Adjust according to your preference for heat.
What dishes pair well with refried beans?
Refried beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of Mexican recipes. They complement dishes like South Of The Border Chili or can be used as a filling for Taco Ritos. Serve them alongside rice and salsa for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).