You’ve got a big can of refried beans in your pantry and you’re looking for ways to use them up. Refried beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many delicious recipes beyond just bean burritos and tacos. With a little creativity, you can transform that large can into lots of tasty meals and snacks for the whole family. This article will provide plenty of ideas to help you get the most out of your canned refried beans.
What are refried beans?
Refried beans are a staple of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. They are made from pinto beans that have been boiled, mashed, and then fried in oil. The process of “refrying” them gives the beans their distinctive soft, creamy texture. Unlike whole beans, refried beans have been cooked down into a thick paste. Most canned varieties contain extra oil or lard to help improve the smooth, spreadable consistency. They typically come pre-seasoned with onions, garlic, and chili peppers for a boost of flavor. The term “refried” is a bit misleading since the beans aren’t technically fried twice. The Spanish name “frijoles refritos” translates more accurately to “well-fried beans.” While traditionally made with pinto beans, you can also find refried beans prepared from black or pink beans. Canned refried beans offer a quick and convenient way to enjoy the comfort of this popular side dish anytime.
Nutrition Facts
Before diving into recipes, let’s look at the nutritional value of refried beans:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
The main nutritional benefits of refried beans come from their fiber and protein. Just one half cup serving provides 5 grams of dietary fiber, about 20% of the recommended daily value. Fiber promotes healthy digestion and may help lower cholesterol levels. Refried beans also supply a hefty dose of plant-based protein at 7 grams per serving. They make a nourishing meatless protein source when served with rice or wrapped in a tortilla.
However, be mindful of the sodium content. Canned refried beans can be quite high in sodium, with one serving providing 15% of the recommended maximum daily limit. Look for low-sodium or no-salt-added versions if limiting salt intake. Draining and rinsing the beans can also reduce the sodium level.
Overall, refried beans make a tasty and filling addition to any diet when eaten in moderation. Now let’s look at all the delicious ways to use them!
Simple Meal Ideas
Here are some quick and easy meal ideas that highlight refried beans:
Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
Spread refried beans on a tortilla, top with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey jack. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet until the cheese melts. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole or sour cream.
Bean Burritos
Wrap refried beans, Spanish rice, cheese and other favorite fillings like sautéed veggies or shredded chicken in a flour tortilla.
Bean and Veggie Tacos
Pile refried beans, lettuce, tomato, avocado and cheese into crunchy taco shells for a fast weeknight dinner.
Loaded Nachos
Layer refried beans, seasoned ground beef or chicken, tomatoes, olives, jalapenos, and melted cheese over tortilla chips for an easy nacho platter.
Bean Tostadas
Top crisp corn tostada shells with refried beans, lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, queso fresco or feta and a drizzle of Mexican crema.
These ideas make it easy to build a complete meal around a can of refried beans. Now let’s look at some hearty main dishes and soups.
Main Dish and Soup Recipes
Make refried beans the star of these filling entrees and soups:
Vegetarian Chili
Sauté onions, bell peppers and spices like cumin and chili powder. Add tomatoes, corn and your can of beans. Let simmer until thickened. Top with avocado, cheese, or cilantro.
Mexican Chicken Soup
Simmer chicken broth with tomatoes, corn, chicken breast, chopped veggies and beans. Finish with lime juice and cilantro.
Enchiladas
Fill corn tortillas with refried beans, cheese, and your choice of vegetables, shredded chicken or ground beef. Top with enchilada sauce and more cheese, then bake until hot and bubbly.
Breakfast Burritos
Scramble eggs with beans, cheese, peppers and onions. Wrap in a tortilla with salsa for a hearty breakfast hand-held.
Bean Torta
Spread refried beans on crusty bread. Layer with sliced ham, cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato and onion for an easy bean sandwich.
These filling meals turn humble canned beans into satisfying center-of-the-plate dishes. Up next, some apps and sides featuring refried beans.
Appetizers and Side Dishes
Refried beans also shine in these appetizers, snacks and sides:
Bean Dip
Blend refried beans with salsa, garlic and spices to make a creamy, protein-packed dip for tortilla chips.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Top baked russet potatoes with refried beans, cheese, bacon, and green onion for an easy loaded potato.
Empanadas
Fill pastry shells with spiced ground beef and refried beans for hand-held Mexican pies.
Bean Flautas
Roll bean and cheese filling in tortillas, fry until crispy and serve with guacamole and crema. Great as an appetizer.
Spanish Rice
Stir a can of refried beans into rice as it cooks for added flavor, texture and nutrition.
Beans add substance, fiber and a pop of protein to any side dish. Now let’s explore some sweet ways to use up those refried beans.
Dessert Recipes
It may sound unorthodox, but beans can actually work in select desserts:
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
Mix refried beans with brown sugar, oats and chocolate chips. Roll into balls and bake for a protein-packed cookie dough-style treat.
Mexican Wedding Cookies
Blend powdered sugar, butter, and cinnamon, then mix in refried beans as you shape the dough into balls. Roll in more powdered sugar after baking.
Bean Brownies
Puree beans in a blender until completely smooth then add to brownie batter. The beans add moisture for fudgy brownies.
Bean Cake
Make a simple cake mix according to package directions, replacing part of the oil or water with an equal amount of mashed beans.
The mild flavor and smooth texture of refried beans work well in brownie and cake batters. Just drain and rinse the beans, then puree until completely smooth before adding to your baking mix.
Other Ways to Use Refried Beans
Beyond eating refried beans, here are some other clever ways to use them:
Hair Mask
Blend beans with yogurt or olive oil and apply to hair for 20 minutes before rinsing. The proteins can strengthen hair.
Facial Mask
Mash beans with a fork and apply to face for a smoothing, hydrating mask. Rinse after 15-20 minutes.
Fertilizer
Bury crushed beans in soil around plants. As they break down, they release nitrogen to fertilize plants.
Pet Treats
Mix refried beans with peanut butter and stuff into a Kong for a hearty, healthy dog treat.
Plant-Based Egg Substitute
Pureed beans can replace eggs as a binder in baked goods like brownies. Generally 1/4 cup beans equals 1 egg.
With so many possibilities, that can of refried beans can go a long way! A quick side dish recipe is just the beginning of how to creatively use refried beans in tasty meals, beauty recipes and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about refried beans:
How long do canned refried beans last?
Properly stored, unopened canned refried beans will keep for 2-5 years past the printed best buy date. Once opened, they should be used within 3-5 days. Keep beans refrigerated after opening.
Can you freeze refried beans?
Yes, you can freeze leftover refried beans to extend their shelf life. Allow beans to cool completely then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Frozen, they will keep for 2-3 months.
Are refried beans already cooked?
Canned refried beans have already been thoroughly cooked and mashed. They can be eaten straight from the can once heated, added to recipes as-is, or blended smooth for spreads and dips. No need to cook them further.
Are refried beans healthy?
Made from nutrient-dense beans, refried beans provide protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. However, they can be high in sodium from added salt, oil and preservatives so enjoy in moderation if concerned about these. Opt for low-sodium versions or adjust seasonings.
Can you substitute black beans for refried beans?
While not exactly the same, you can sub black beans for refried beans in most recipes. Just mash them lightly with a fork or puree to approximate the soft, spreadable texture of refried beans. The flavor will be somewhat different though.
With so many ways to eat them, a big can of refried beans is an inexpensive and versatile pantry staple. Get creative in using up those beans in lots of delicious recipes!
Conclusion
Refried beans may seem like a boring kitchen basic, but in fact they are incredibly versatile. With a little creativity, that big can of refried beans can be transformed into easy meals, hearty main dishes, appetizing sides, and even sweet treats. Their smooth, mild flavor works in savory and sweet recipes alike. Beyond cooking, refried beans even have uses around the home and garden. So next time you have a surplus of refried beans, don’t let them go to waste! With this wide range of recipe ideas, you can give those humble canned beans new life in lots of delicious dishes your whole family will love.