Refried Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) Legume/Side Dish

Refried Beans Legume/Side Dish

At a Glance

  • Category Legume/Side Dish

The Forktionary Angle

"The Misunderstood Mash: Deconstructing the 'Refried' in Frijoles Refritos"

Definition

A dish of cooked and mashed beans, usually pinto or black, pan-fried with fat and seasonings, prominent in Mexican cuisine.

Etymology "Refritos" means well-fried, not twice-fried
Protein Source High in plant-based protein
Storage 3-5 days refrigerated (homemade)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Refried Beans are:

Earthy savory creamy often with hints of onion garlic and cumin

Chef’s Secret

Add a spoonful of bacon fat or lard while frying the beans for an incredibly rich, authentic flavor profile; for vegetarian, use olive oil or avocado oil and smoked paprika.

Best Substitutes

Black Beans

mashed
Ratio 1:1

Lentil Mash

Ratio 1:1

Pinto Beans

whole, for texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For canned, check for low sodium options. For dried beans, ensure they are fresh and free from damage. Homemade offers superior flavor.

Recipes Using Refried Beans

American Main Ingredient Comfort Food Tex Mex

5 Ingredient Soup

This ridiculously easy 5-ingredient soup is a crowd-pleaser every time! Packed with protein and fiber, yet low in fat and calories, it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, not 20 minutes. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Dietary Appetizers Oven Time To Make

5 Layer Dip

This 5-layer dip is a guaranteed party hit! Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe features creamy layers of refried beans, zesty salsa, and melty cheese, topped with salty black olives. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Kid Friendly Main Dish Course Low In Something

6 Can Chicken Tortilla Soup

Quick, easy, and ridiculously delicious! This 5-can chicken tortilla soup recipe is ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe uses convenient canned ingredients to deliver big flavor without the fuss. Enjoy a hearty and satisfying soup bursting with authentic Mexican flavors!

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Time To Make Main Dish One Dish Meal 3 Steps Or Less

7 Layer Salad

This incredibly popular 7 Layer Salad is more than just a mix of veggies—it's a flavor explosion! Perfectly layered and chilled overnight, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Easy to make, unbelievably delicious, and guaranteed to be a new family favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Chicken Weeknight Time To Make Low Carb

Authentic Mexican Enchiladas Verdes

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Mexico City with this authentic Enchiladas Verdes recipe! Passed down from a Mexico City native, this recipe yields 24 delicious enchiladas—perfect for a crowd or freezing for later. The rich tomatillo sauce and tender shredded chicken filling will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. While time-consuming (but worth it!), you can prep the sauce and filling ahead of time. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience!

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Beginner Cook 5 Ingredients Or Less Dietary Dips

Awesome Taco Dip

This legendary taco dip recipe has been a party favorite since 1990! Easy to make, yet incredibly delicious, this crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering. Get ready for rave reviews! (Can sizes are approximate)

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Oven North American American Equipment

Baked Steak Burrito Casserole

Craving a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish? This Baked Steak Burrito Casserole is a crowd-pleaser! Tender steak, melted cheese, and warm tortillas smothered in a rich enchilada sauce – it's the perfect hearty meal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a weeknight dinner. This easy recipe, a winner of a bake-off contest, uses simple ingredients and avoids overwhelming spice, making it an excellent introduction to Mexican cooking. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Main Dish Meat

Baked Steak Burritos

Craving a flavor explosion? These Baked Steak Burritos are packed with spicy beef, hearty beans, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. A simple yet satisfying recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. Get ready for a south-of-the-border fiesta in your kitchen!

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Main Ingredient Novelty Kid Friendly Southwestern United States

Bean Cheese Taquitos W Guacamole

Craving delicious, vegetarian taquitos? This easy recipe delivers crispy, flavorful taquitos packed with hearty beans and melty cheese, all served with creamy homemade guacamole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegan diets too! Skip the restaurant and make these amazing taquitos at home in just 45 minutes.

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Dietary Course Time To Make Mexican

Bean And Cheese Quesadilla

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially for kids! Crispy, cheesy bean quesadillas are perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or a fun snack. Serve with your favorite ranch dressing for dipping, alongside chips and salsa for a complete fiesta! For a healthier option, microwave instead of frying – they'll be slightly less crispy, but just as delicious. This simple recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to your family's preferences.

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Course Mexican Main Dish Beginner Cook

Bean Burritos Enchilada Style

A quick and easy recipe for cheesy bean burritos baked enchilada-style! This nostalgic favorite is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy the gooey cheese, flavorful beans, and spicy enchilada sauce in every bite.

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Mexican To Go Occasion Main Ingredient

Bean Burritos Simple For Camping

Quick, easy, and delicious bean burritos perfect for your next camping trip! These satisfying burritos require minimal ingredients and cook in under 15 minutes. Fuel your adventure with a flavorful and filling meal.

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Dietary Low Carb Equipment Main Ingredient

Beef And Bean Burrito Filling

This zesty beef and bean burrito filling recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Perfect for classic burritos, vibrant taco salads, or as a delicious base for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes. Customize it with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream for a truly unforgettable meal. Get ready to savor every bite!

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Oven Tex Mex Comfort Food Cuisine

Beef Quesadillas

These cheesy beef quesadillas are a family favorite! Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, they're perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch. This recipe features tender beef, savory beans, and melty cheese, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. Get ready for a fiesta of flavor!

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Easy Time To Make Easy Dietary

Creamy Bean Soup

Warm up with this hearty and delicious Creamy Bean Soup! A quick and easy 19-minute recipe perfect for a weeknight meal. Bursting with flavor from zesty salsa, lime, and cumin, this creamy soup is sure to become a family favorite. Top with shredded cheddar for extra cheesy goodness!

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Taste Mood Holiday Event Beans Easy

Kittencal's Mexi Ground Beef Guacamole Seven Layer Dip

Get ready for a flavor explosion! This incredible seven-layer dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for your next party or game day gathering. I've perfected this recipe, combining savory ground beef with creamy guacamole, spicy jalapenos, and rich layers of cheese and beans. Prepare the components ahead of time – it's even better at room temperature! Easily customizable to your spice preference, this dip is guaranteed to have your guests begging for more. Make a double batch for larger crowds!

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Main Dish Ground Beef Main Dish Oven

My Famous Enchiladas

A beloved family recipe, perfected over generations! These enchiladas start with a simple base, but the layers of flavor—from savory beef and beans to spicy peppers and melted cheese—will leave you craving more. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience enchiladas elevated!

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Low Calorie Dietary Occasion Course

Spicy Bean And Avocado Tostadas

Whip up these Spicy Bean & Avocado Tostadas in just 15 minutes! A quick, flavorful, and satisfying vegetarian supper perfect for a busy weeknight. This recipe features perfectly grilled tortillas, a zesty black bean and corn salsa, and creamy avocado for the ultimate taste explosion.

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