Refried Bean Casserole
A creamy, cheesy refried bean casserole packed with savory flavors from onions, green peppers, and spices. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck, this dish is easy to prepare and baked until bubbly, making it a satisfying vegetarian main or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion and green pepper until well softened.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with the cooked, smashed pinto beans, sour cream, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Turn the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onions and peppers. If you don't have pinto beans, black beans or refried beans can be great alternatives. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños to the mix or top with your favorite hot sauce before serving. This dish also works well as a base for a Taco Appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Aunt Helen'S Mexican Corn Bread for a comforting combo. For an extra touch, add a dollop of salsa or fresh cilantro on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover refried bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refried Bean Casserole contains roughly 496 calories, with 24g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this refried bean casserole is entirely vegetarian! It features wholesome ingredients like pinto beans, sour cream, and vegetables, making it a hearty option for anyone following a vegetarian diet. You can easily adapt it to a vegan version by substituting sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
What can I serve with refried bean casserole?
Refried bean casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of Mexican rice, steamed vegetables, or tortilla chips for crunch. It also makes a great filling for burritos or tacos, so feel free to get creative with your serving options!
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).