Homemade refried bean dip doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. These easy refried beans from the canned variety are creamy and flavorful thanks to canned pinto beans.

Mexican restaurants serve refried beans as a staple side dish, or dip, but many home cooks think they need to start from dried beans.

Canned pinto white beans make this process incredibly simple while still delivering that authentic taste we all love. The secret lies in the seasoning and proper mashing technique.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy

This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

2. Uses Pantry Staples

All you need are canned beans and a few basic ingredients you likely already have on hand.

3. Vegan & Gluten-Free

Naturally vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free, these beans are a versatile side that fit many diets.

4. Restaurant-Style Flavor at Home

Creamy, flavorful, and well-seasoned—just like your favorite Mexican restaurant, but made at home.

Totally Customizable

Make them spicy, cheesy, or ultra-smooth with just a few easy tweaks. You’re in control of the flavor and texture.

Great for Meal Prep

These beans store well and taste even better the next day—perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Try More Recipes Like This One:

1. Turkish Red Lentil Soup

2. Easy Creamy Avocado Pasta Sauce With Roasted Garlic

3. Minute Feta Cheese Appetizer

4. Easy 20-Minutes Thai Quinoa Salad

How to Make Easy Refried Beans from Canned Beans

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Potato masher or fork
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups

Variations for the Refried Beans Recipe 

These refried beans made from canned beans can be a healthy addition to your diet, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They can be particularly beneficial for vegetarians and vegans as a complete protein source when paired with rice.

• Creamy Restaurant Style: You can use an immersion blender instead of a potato masher for ultra-smooth beans that match restaurant texture.
• Spicy Version: Try adding a minced jalapeño with the garlic, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Black Bean Alternative: You can also swap for black beans if preferred. Feel free to drain and rinse them, if desired. Make sure to add in closer to 1/2 cup of water.
• Onion Addition: Sauté ½ cup chopped onion until translucent before adding the garlic for extra flavor depth.
• Cheesy Beans: Stir in ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend just before serving for extra richness.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 5 days. The beans will thicken as they cool, which is completely normal.
• Freezer Storage: Let the refried beans cool completely and store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw the beans in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Methods: In a microwave-safe dish, add beans and a splash of water. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed. You can also reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat. Always add a little water when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Notes on Ingredients

• Pinto Beans: I use canned pinto beans. You can drain one can and include the liquid from the other can. The bean liquid adds extra flavor and helps achieve the right consistency.
• Oil Choice: You can use any cooking oil of your choice. 
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates the best flavor foundation. Pre-minced garlic from a jar will work in a pinch but won’t provide the same aromatic quality.
• Seasonings: Chili powder gives the beans their signature flavor, but you can substitute with homemade taco seasoning for more complexity.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook the dried beans first. Soak 1 cup dried pinto beans overnight, then boil until tender (about 1-2 hours). Use 3 cups of cooked beans in place of the canned beans, and reserve some cooking liquid to use instead of water.

Why are my refried beans too watery?

If they have too much liquid for your tastes, you can continue to simmer for a few more minutes to allow the liquid to reduce. Remember that beans thicken as they cool, so don’t over-reduce while hot.

Can I make these beans ahead of time?

Yes! Refried beans actually taste better the next day as flavors have time to meld. Make them up to 5 days in advance and reheat with a splash of water to restore consistency.

What’s the difference between refried beans and regular beans?

This popular Mexican side is made with cooked pinto beans that are pan-fried. The term ‘refried’ can be a bit confusing, as they are pan-fried just once, but the original Spanish name for the dish is Frijoles Refritos. Refritos means ‘well-fried’.

Are homemade refried beans healthier than canned?

Yes, homemade versions allow you to control sodium content and avoid preservatives. Rich and thick easy refried beans from canned pinto beans are great side dish that is also vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. You can also choose healthier oils and adjust seasonings to your dietary needs.