Vegan Refried Beans

These Vegan Refried Beans are creamy, rich, and packed with savory flavor — made easily from canned pinto beans right on your stovetop. They’re the perfect addition to tacos, burritos, nachos, or any Tex-Mex meal, and come together with simple pantry staples in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Using canned pinto beans keeps things easy and accessible, while aromatics like garlic, onion, and warm spices bring bold, authentic flavor. It’s entirely vegan with no compromise on taste or texture. Whether you serve them as a side or mash them into the star of your dish, these refried beans are endlessly versatile and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 (15.5-ounce) cans of pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small red onion, finely diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon dry Mexican oregano

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 cup water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prep the Ingredients:
Drain and rinse the pinto beans and have them ready to use.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
In a medium-sized pan over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds, stirring constantly.

3. Add Spices and Beans:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cumin, oregano, and paprika. Cook for about 10 seconds, continuing to stir. Add the pinto beans and mix thoroughly.

4. Simmer the Beans:
Pour in the water and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, checking every 10 minutes to prevent sticking.

5. Mash and Thicken:
Remove the lid and raise the heat to medium-high. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, begin mashing the beans while stirring to let excess liquid evaporate. Continue until the beans reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve:
Once thickened to your liking, remove from heat and serve warm as a side or part of your favorite Mexican-inspired dish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Smoother Texture: Use an immersion blender or food processor for an ultra-creamy bean mixture.

• Chunky Style: Only mash some of the beans for a heartier texture.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the spices.

• Crockpot Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours, then mash before serving.

• Smoky Flavor: Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Let the beans cool completely, then freeze in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use black beans instead of pinto beans?

Yes, black beans work well in this recipe and give a slightly different flavor and texture.

Are these beans spicy?

No, they are mildly seasoned. You can increase the heat with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Absolutely. Cook 1.5 cups of dried pinto beans beforehand, then proceed with the recipe.

How do I get a super creamy texture?

Use an immersion blender or food processor after cooking for a completely smooth consistency.

Can I make these without oil?

Yes, you can sauté the aromatics in a splash of water or broth for an oil-free version.

Do I need to rinse the canned beans?

Yes, rinsing removes excess sodium and starch for a cleaner flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these refried beans?

Serve them in burritos, tacos, tostadas, nachos, or as a side with rice.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just double all the ingredients. You may need a larger pot and slightly longer cooking time.

What does Mexican oregano taste like?

Mexican oregano has a citrusy, slightly earthy flavor that complements Latin dishes well. If unavailable, regular oregano can be used as a substitute.

Can I add lime juice?

Yes, a squeeze of lime at the end adds brightness and enhances the flavor.

Conclusion

These Vegan Refried Beans are a wholesome, flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you like them chunky or creamy, spicy or mild, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to make with pantry staples. Once you try homemade refried beans, you’ll never go back to canned again.