Make your own refried beans at home with the help of your microwave! Pinto beans are seasoned with Mexican flavors and ready in just minutes for an easy side, dip, or filling.
To a microwave safe bowl, add the beans, chicken broth, and all the seasonings (everything except the butter)
15 ounce can pinto beans, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp Mexican oregano, ¼ tsp ancho chile powder, ¼ cup chicken broth
Cover with a vented lid or a paper towel and cook on high for 2 minutes, stirring halfway, until beans are hot
Use a potato masher (or a fork if you don’t have one) to mash the beans until the desired consistency is reached (I usually leave some chunks for texture)
Stir in the butter until melted
1 Tbsp butter
Garnish if desired and enjoy!
Notes
You can also use black beans instead of pinto beans
All seasonings are adjustable to taste, including omission. Other great options are cilantro, chili powder, lime juice, and other types of peppers
The chicken broth can be swapped for beef, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative
I use butter instead of the more traditional lard, and you can also use olive oil
Toppings are optional, but you can add some crumbled cotija cheese, shredded Mexican style cheese, fresh cilantro, or pico de gallo if you’d like
I made this recipe using a 1000W microwave. If you have a lower or higher wattage, you may need to adjust cooking time to achieve hot beans accordingly
There will be liquid in the dish prior to mashing (it does not evaporate during cooking). Don’t worry, this is what gives you the correct consistency after mashing!
Store any leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
To reheat your refried beans, microwave for about 1 minute on high. Stir and add additional time in 30-second increments as needed until hot. If they are too thick, add water or broth 1 Tbsp at a time to add moisture
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any toppings or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
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