Susan'S Refried Beans
Susan's Refried Beans are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal or side dish, combining tender pinto beans with savory spices and rich onion and garlic notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the beans in 6 to 8 cups water for 1 minute.
- Let sit off the heat for 1 hour; water should cover beans as they double in size.
- Drain beans in a colander and add fresh water.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the beans.
- If using a pressure cooker, cook the beans for 30 minutes; otherwise, simmer on the stove for 2 hours or until tender.
- When done, mash them a bit with a potato masher until they are thick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a smoked paprika or diced jalapeños to the mix. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder. You can also use canned pinto beans instead; just rinse and skip the soaking step. If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly speed up the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
These refried beans are perfect for a variety of dishes. Serve them as a hearty side with tacos or burritos, or use them as a base for Deluxe Nachos. They can also be spread on tortillas for a delicious bean dip or as a filling for a taco salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also microwave them, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susan'S Refried Beans contains roughly 1687 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 182g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 use other types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, while pinto beans are traditional, you can also use black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of beans used.
How can I make these refried beans spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of hot chili powder or add diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You could also incorporate some hot sauce like Salsa (Hot Sauce) into the mixture for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beans a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and store the cooked beans in the refrigerator. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
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).