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

Weeknight Preparation Dietary Number Of Servings

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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Vegetarian Time To Make Dietary Eggs Dairy

Bean And Cheese Pinwheels

These easy-to-make bean and cheese pinwheels are the perfect appetizer for your next gathering! Creamy refried beans and spicy Colby Jack cheese are rolled into soft tortillas, then chilled for a delightful crunch. Serve with salsa for an extra kick or enjoy them plain – they're delicious either way! (Chilling time: 30 minutes)

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Occasion Mexican Preparation Brunch

Bean Burrito Dip

This easy and delicious bean burrito dip is a party favorite, always disappearing first! Imagine creamy refried beans, blended with zesty spices and melty cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. But the fun doesn't stop there! Leftovers transform into quick and tasty burritos – simply add grilled chicken or steak, a splash of salsa, and warm flour tortillas for a satisfying meal. Get ready to impress your guests with this crowd-pleasing recipe!

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60 Minutes Or Less Beans Main Dish Low In Something

Beefy Refried Bean Soup

This incredibly smooth and flavorful Beefy Refried Bean Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! So easy to make, even picky eaters will gobble it up. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easily doubled or tripled for large families or meal prepping. The secret? A perfectly blended texture that's gentle enough for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. Prepare for epic leftover battles!

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Meat Casseroles Southwestern United States Beef

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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Course Oven Main Ingredient Low In Something

Basic Taco Bake

A super easy and incredibly satisfying Mexican-inspired casserole! This Basic Taco Bake recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and ready in under an hour. Get ready for layers of flavorful ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. A crowd-pleaser for the whole family!

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Main Dish Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Beef And Bean Chimichangas

Crispy, golden chimichangas bursting with savory beef, hearty beans, and melted cheese! This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious Mexican-inspired meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun party snack. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Easy Dietary

7 Layer Sombrero Dip

This legendary 7 Layer Sombrero Dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear in minutes! A nostalgic throwback to classic Mexican flavors, this dip features creamy layers of refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, and more, all piled high on a platter and served with crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight snack.

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Number Of Servings Dietary Time To Make Course

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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Course Main Ingredient Casseroles Main Dish

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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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Comfort Food

Baked Sausage Taco Dip

This hot and hearty Baked Sausage Taco Dip is the perfect game-day snack or weeknight appetizer! Made with savory sausage, creamy beans, and your favorite taco toppings, this dip is easy to make ahead, bakes to bubbly perfection, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Course 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Main Dish

5 Minute Wet Beef Green Chile Burritos

Craving authentic Mexican flavor in a flash? These 5-Minute Wet Beef Green Chile Burritos are your answer! This incredibly fast recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste without the wait. Perfect for busy weeknights, these burritos are packed with tender beef, spicy green chiles, and melty cheese, all wrapped in warm tortillas. A cut above your average quick meal – get ready to impress yourself and your family!

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Kid Friendly Tex Mex Lunch Beans

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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Cuisine 3 Steps Or Less Comfort Food Cuisine

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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Poultry Taste Mood Course Crock Pot Slow Cooker

Crock Pot Shredded Chicken Enchiladas

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy Crock-Pot recipe! Tender, flavorful shredded chicken is slow-cooked to perfection, then transformed into crispy, cheesy enchiladas that will have everyone asking for more. Minimal prep work is required – simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic. This recipe combines the best of several favorites, resulting in juicy chicken and perfectly golden tortillas. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend.

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Equipment North American Course Preparation

Layered Mexicasserole

A family-friendly Mexican casserole that's surprisingly easy to make! This layered delight is packed with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Kids and adults will love this cheesy, comforting dish. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Cuisine Vegetarian 15 Minutes Or Less Occasion

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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Main Ingredient Time To Make Healthy 2 North American

Bean And Beef Enchiladas

Craving a delicious and authentic Mexican meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Our Bean and Beef Enchiladas are the perfect solution! This easy recipe offers two methods – a layered casserole or classic rolled enchiladas – both delivering a flavorful explosion of beef, beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is quick, healthy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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