Are you looking for a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes? Look no further than refried beans! These creamy, flavorful beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and can be used in everything from breakfast casseroles to burritos.
One of the great things about refried beans is their ability to add depth and richness to a dish. They can be used as a base for dips and spreads, or as a filling for tacos and burritos. And because they’re packed with protein and fiber, they’re a great way to add some nutritional value to your meals. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, refried beans are a great ingredient to have on hand.
From soups and salads to casseroles and burritos, there are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking with this versatile ingredient. So grab a can of refried beans or make some homemade refried beans and get ready to elevate your meals to the next level! You’ll also love our homemade spicy salsa with many of these recipes.
Why Refried Beans are a Great Ingredient
Refried beans pack a nutritional punch that can benefit your health in many ways.
One of the main benefits is their high fiber content. Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps keep your digestive system functioning properly and can also help lower your cholesterol levels. According to Healthline, just one cup of refried beans contains about 10 grams of fiber, which is more than half of your daily recommended intake.
In addition to fiber, refried beans are also a great source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, and it can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. One cup of refried beans contains about 13 grams of protein, which is about a quarter of your daily recommended intake.
Another great thing about refried beans is how easy they are to prepare. You can buy canned refried beans at your local grocery store, or you can make them from scratch using dried beans. Either way, they’re a quick and easy ingredient to add to your favorite recipes.
Here are some ideas for incorporating refried beans into your meals:
- Use them as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas
- Spread them on a tortilla and top with your favorite veggies for a quick and easy lunch
- Mix them with salsa and cheese for a delicious dip
- Use them as a base for a healthy and hearty soup
Overall, refried beans are a great ingredient to have on hand for quick and easy meals that are also packed with nutrition. So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a can or two and start experimenting with all the delicious ways you can use them in your cooking.
Classic Recipes with Refried Beans
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and they can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some classic recipes that feature refried beans as a key ingredient:
Bean and Cheese Burritos
Who doesn’t love a good bean and cheese burrito? They’re a classic comfort food, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. They’re filled with creamy refried beans, diced onions, and a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. The best part? They’re ready in less than 30 minutes!
Loaded Nachos
Who says nachos are just for game days? These Loaded Nachos are perfect for any day of the week. They’re vegetarian-friendly and loaded with both refried and black beans, so you won’t miss the meat. Add in some shredded Monterey Jack cheese, avocado, tomato, corn, and green chilis, and you’ve got a plate of nachos that’s a feast for the eyes and the stomach.
Red Chile Tostadas with Eggs
Looking for a breakfast that’s a little extra? These Red Chile Tostadas with Eggs are a game-changer. The recipe starts with a crispy fried corn tortilla, followed by a layer of refried black beans. Then comes the star of the show: a fried egg cooked in red chile enchilada sauce. Top it off with cheddar cheese, pickled red onions, and cilantro, and you’ve got a breakfast that’s creamy, crunchy, and tangy all at once.
Refried Bean Tacos
In a time crunch but still want a satisfying meal? These Quick Refried Bean Tacos are your answer. Ready in just 15 minutes, these tacos are filled with refried beans that are jazzed up with a hint of garlic and cumin. The best part? You can customize the toppings to your heart’s content. Go for crunchy veggies like romaine lettuce and bell peppers, and don’t forget the taco sauce for that extra zing!
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Looking for a dinner that’s both easy and satisfying? This Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a winner. With just five main ingredients—cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, Mexican-style cheese, tortillas, and refried beans—you can whip up this dish in no time. The layers of tortillas, beans, chicken, cheese, and sauce bake together into a cheesy, gooey masterpiece.
Mini Chicken Quesadillas
Got some leftover rotisserie chicken? Turn it into these delicious Mini Chicken Quesadillas. These snack-sized quesadillas are filled with refried beans, chicken, cheese, and salsa, then cooked to golden brown perfection. They’re a hit for game days, parties, or even a light lunch.
Beef Chimichangas
Craving some restaurant-quality Mexican food but want to stay in? Try these Beef Chimichangas that are filled with a scrumptious ground beef and refried bean mixture. Seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and oregano, these chimichangas are fried until crispy and then smothered in cheese and jalapeño tomato sauce.
Huevos Rancheros
Switch up your breakfast game with this classic Mexican dish, Huevos Rancheros. While the original recipe doesn’t include refried beans, adding them as a topping can elevate the dish to a whole new level. The recipe starts with crispy corn tortillas and lightly fried eggs. You can then top it with your choice of avocado, fresh cilantro, Monterey-Jack cheese, and of course, refried beans for that extra layer of flavor and texture.
Refried Bean Dip
Dip into deliciousness with the Best Refried Bean Dip that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of Tex-Mex flavors. This dip is a party starter, made with refried beans, sour cream, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. It’s baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheddar cheese on top. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear!
Taco Salad
Looking for a salad that’s more than just leafy greens? Check out this Easy Layered Taco Salad that’s a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a potluck favorite that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This layered beauty starts with a base of tortilla chips, followed by a warm mixture of ground beef, refried beans, and red bell peppers. Top it off with cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes, and you’ve got a salad that’s anything but boring.
Easy Mexican Pizza
Craving that Taco Bell Mexican Pizza but don’t want to hit the drive-thru? Make it at home with this Easy Mexican Pizza. This copycat recipe is a fun twist on taco night and a great way to satisfy those fast-food cravings right at home! It features fried tortillas layered with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, and all your favorite taco toppings like cheese, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes.
7 Layer Dip
Need a quick and easy appetizer that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? Look no further than this Easy Layered Taco Dip. With just 5 minutes and 7 ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dip that’s perfect for any occasion. This no-cook dip features layers of refried beans, creamy guacamole, sour cream, and your favorite taco toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, black olives, and green onions.
Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Start your morning with a fiesta of flavors! This Mexican Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish that’s perfect for the whole family. Imagine a layer of refried beans, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and tortillas forming the base. Then comes a zesty mix of eggs, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and green chilies. Top it all off with crispy bacon and gooey Pepper Jack cheese. Optional toppings like avocado, tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream make it even more irresistible.
Refried Beans Casserole
This casserole is made with layers of refried beans, cheeses, jalapenos, and spices. Add ground beef or chicken to make it more filling. Dunk your favorite chips in this dip or spread it over tortillas to make level up your tacos and burritos. Yum.
Refried Bean Burgers
These burgers are made with a patty of refried black beans (though you can use regular ones as well), breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, and spices. Serve them on a bun with your choice of toppings.
Mexican Lasagna
Mexican Lasagna is made with layers of tortillas, refried beans, enchilada sauce, cheeses, and ground beef with chiles, corn, and tomatoes. Swap out the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken if you want to lower the fat and calories, and you still have a super delicious meal.
Refried Beans and Rice Skillet
This skillet dish is made with refried beans, rice, sausage links, tomatoes, corn, and your plenty of seasonings. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s ready in about 25 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Refried Bean Soup
This soup is made with homemade refried beans, salsa, and water. It’s really that easy! But you can add corn to it to make it more filling or spice it up with cumin or chili powder. It’s a hearty and warming dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights.
Mexican Bean Dip
This dip is made with refried beans, two types of cheese, jalapeno peppers, and spices. Serve it with tortilla chips or pita chips for a tasty snack.
As you can see, there are many classic recipes that feature refried beans as a key ingredient. Whether you’re making burritos, tacos, or enchiladas, refried beans add a delicious and filling element to any dish. So next time you’re in the mood for Mexican food, try incorporating refried beans into your meal!
