The Best Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe – Creamy, Flavorful & Easy to Make!

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Main Dish

Difficulty

Easy

Prep time

5 min

Cooking time

10 min

Total time

15 min

Servings

3

Ever wonder why taco bell refried beans recipe is so creamy? You’re in luck if you want to make it at home. This guide will show you how to make creamy beans in under 25 minutes using canned beans or from scratch with dried beans. You’ll need simple ingredients you likely have.

With a few easy steps, you can make delicious beans for tacos, burritos, and more. Learn how to get that Taco Bell taste right in your kitchen!

taco bell refried beans recipe

Key Takeaways

  • This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of creamy refried beans, ideal for multiple servings.
  • Use canned pinto beans for a quick 15-minute recipe or dried beans if you prefer to cook from scratch.
  • Incorporate spices like cumin and smoked paprika for authentic flavor.
  • Store your leftover beans properly to maintain freshness for up to 5 days in the fridge.
  • Experiment with optional add-ons for extra creaminess and spice in your easy refried beans.

Why This Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe is a Must-Try

If you love Mexican food, you’ll adore this taco bell refried beans recipe. It’s easy to make and tastes just like Taco Bell’s. You’ll enjoy a mix of garlic, cumin, and onion powder that’s full of flavor.

What Makes It Taste Just Like Taco Bell’s?

The secret is in the ingredients. You can use canned pinto beans for a fast version or dried beans for a richer homemade flavor. Each serving has 90 calories and 5g of protein, making it tasty and healthy.

How This Recipe Beats Store-Bought Canned Beans

Homemade refried beans let you control the taste and texture. Canned beans can’t match the freshness and quality of this recipe. You can make it creamier by adjusting the bean broth. This makes your dish better than canned beans.

taco bell refried beans recipe

Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe

To make the creamy refried beans like Taco Bell’s, you need the right stuff. Start with basic ingredients for a true taste. Then, add spices to make it even better. This way, your beans will taste just as good as the real thing.

Core Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

The main parts of your refried beans recipe are:

  • One 15oz can of pinto beans
  • Butter or oil for richness
  • Garlic powder for depth
  • Onion powder to enhance sweetness
  • Cumin for that signature earthy note
  • Salt to bring all the flavors together

These ingredients make a great base for your homemade refried beans. They capture the essence of Taco Bell’s famous dish.

Optional Add-Ons for Extra Creaminess & Spice

Want to make your beans even better? Try these add-ons:

  • Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
  • Lime juice to introduce a tangy contrast
  • Jalapeños for an extra kick

Adding these spices and ingredients makes your beans special. It shows you care about the taste. Your refried beans will wow your family and friends.

taco bell refried beans recipe

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe at Home

This section shows you how to make Taco Bell-style refried beans recipe at home. Follow these steps to get perfect results every time. Learning the right way to make refried beans is key to getting that creamy, tasty dish you love.

Step 1: Prepping Your Beans Like a Pro

If using canned beans, drain and rinse them, then set aside. If using dried beans, start with one pound of pinto beans. 

Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt, then soak them overnight to soften. After soaking, drain the beans and keep a cup of the soaking liquid for later.

Step 2: Cooking & Blending for the Perfect Texture

If using canned beans, heat them in a pan with ½ cup of water or broth for 5 minutes until warm. If using dried beans, place them in a large pot or Instant Pot with 7 cups of low-sodium broth, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. 

But if you like it spicy, add a 4-ounce can of diced green chiles. Cook for 50 minutes on HIGH pressure in the Instant Pot, then let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Secret Tips to Get That Taco Bell Taste

To get the Taco Bell taste, add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar while blending. This makes the beans tangy and flavorful. Adjust the liquid as needed to get the right consistency. This recipe will make your homemade beans taste just like Taco Bell’s.

taco bell refried beans recipe

Pro Tips for Serving & Pairing Your Refried Beans

Taco Bell refried beans is a super versatile recipe. They can make your meals better. You can serve them as a side or mix them into your main dishes. They’re sure to make your food taste great.

Best Ways to Serve This Dish

There are many fun ways to enjoy refried beans. Here are a few ideas:

  • Use refried beans as a filling for classic tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, adding a creamy texture.
  • Spread them on a tortilla as a base layer for a taco pizza or a flavorful Mexican pizza.
  • Top nachos with refried beans for a satisfying crunch and hearty flavor.
  • Serve them as a dip alongside tortilla chips, perfect for gatherings and parties.

What to Eat with Taco Bell Refried Beans

Pairing refried beans can make your meal even better. For a nutritious and flavorful option, try them with Vegan Turnip Greens with Beans. Here are some other tasty combinations:

  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak tacos to create a balanced plate of tacos and beans.
  • Mix with shredded cheese and salsa for a tasty layer in a 7-layer dip, perfect for parties.
  • Combine with rice for a filling and nutritious bowl.
  • Include them in breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs and avocado for a hearty morning meal.

How to Store & Reheat Taco Bell Refried Beans Properly

To keep your Taco Bell refried beans tasty, store and reheat them right. Let the beans cool down after cooking. This helps them stay fresh.

Put the cooled beans in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to five days. Or, freeze them for three months.

Best Storage Tips to Keep Them Fresh

Here are some tips for storing refried beans:

  • Let beans cool before moving them.
  • Use airtight containers to keep moisture in.
  • Write the date on containers to know when they were made.
  • Freeze in small portions for easy use.

By doing these things, your beans will stay tasty and good.

The Right Way to Reheat Without Drying Them Out

To reheat refried beans, keep them moist and tasty. You can use a few ways:

  • In the microwave, heat on high for 1 minute. Add water or broth to keep them moist. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
  • On the stovetop, warm them on low heat. Stir often and add liquid to keep creamy.

These methods will make your refried beans taste like they’re new. Remember, the right way to store and reheat is key to enjoying every bite!

(FAQ) About Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe

This FAQ answers common questions about Taco Bell’s refried beans. It helps you understand their special ingredients. You’ll also learn how to make canned beans taste like Taco Bell’s.

What Does Taco Bell Put in Their Refried Beans?

Taco Bell’s refried beans are made from pinto beans and spices. This mix makes them creamy and tasty. It’s a key part of Taco Bell’s menu.

How Can I Make Canned Refried Beans Taste Like Taco Bell’s?

To make canned beans taste like Taco Bell’s, add garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. A bit of salt and lime juice or cilantro can help too. These ingredients make canned beans taste great.

How Does Taco Bell Make Their Beans?

Taco Bell cooks pinto beans until they’re soft. Then, they season them for that special flavor. This way, their beans always taste the same.

Can I Use Black Beans Instead of Pinto Beans?

Yes, you can use black beans instead of pinto beans. Black beans give a different taste and texture. But, they can make your dish delicious in their own way.

What Should I Serve with Taco Bell Refried Beans Recipe?

Taco Bell refried beans go well with many things. Try them with tacos, burritos, or nachos. They’re also great as a dip with tortilla chips. Get creative and use them in a 7-layer dip or as a base for a Mexican pizza!

Can I Freeze My Refried Beans?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Put them in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for them to expand.

Conclusion

In this article, you learned how to make taco bell refried beans recipe at home. It’s easy and fun. You can now make this tasty dish in your kitchen.

This recipe is great for anyone who loves Mexican food or wants a quick snack. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing. You can make it your own by adding your favorite spices.

Try making homemade taco bell refried beans recipe and see how good it is. It’s a fun way to make your meals special. Your family and friends will love it.

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