slow cooker refried beans recipe

The Best slow cooker refried beans recipe

I’ve been making slow cooker refried beans for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves them, and I love how easy they are to prepare. The recipe is a simple adaptation of the traditional Mexican dish, but with a twist that makes it perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. I’ve experimented with various ingredients and techniques over the years, and I’m excited to share my favorite version with you.

The slow cooker is a game-changer when it comes to refried beans. It allows you to cook the beans low and slow, which breaks down their natural sugars and makes them incredibly tender. This process also helps to preserve the nutrients found in these amazing legumes.

Plus, using a slow cooker eliminates the need for constant stirring, making it a hands-off cooking method that’s perfect for busy families. Refried beans have a rich history that dates back to the Aztecs and Mayans. They were an essential part of their diet, providing protein and fiber in addition to other essential nutrients.

Today, we can find refried beans on menus all over the world, often served alongside tacos, burritos, or as a side dish in its own right. In our household, we love serving refried beans alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for baked potatoes. They’re also an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Slow Cooker Refried Beans Recipe

4.6 from 587 votes

This Slow Cooker Refried Beans Recipe is a simple and delicious way to make creamy, flavorful refried beans with minimal effort. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving as a side dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 lb pinto beans
1 large onion, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

For the Spices

1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Seasoning

2 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice

For Garnish

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp sour cream
1/4 cup shredded cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse pinto beans under cold water and pick out any debris or stones.
2Combine beans, chopped onion, jalapeño, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in the slow cooker.
3Pour vegetable broth and olive oil over the bean mixture.
4Stir well to combine, ensuring all beans are submerged in liquid.
5Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until beans are tender and easily mashed.
6Once beans are tender, use a potato masher or a fork to mash them to your desired consistency.
7Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken.
9Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
10Serve refried beans hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
11Enjoy as a side dish or use in your favorite Mexican recipes.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
large bowl
spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother consistency, you can blend half of the beans before mashing. Add more vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

This slow cooker refried bean recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight meal. The best part?

You can customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite spices or toppings. And don’t worry about leftovers – this recipe freezes beautifully so you can enjoy it whenever you want.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Refried Beans

Q: What is the difference between refried beans and pinto beans?

Refried beans are made from pinto beans that have been cooked until they’re soft and then mashed or pureed until they reach a smooth consistency. Pinto beans are simply cooked pinto beans without any additional processing.

Q: Can I use other types of beans instead of pinto beans?

While pinto beans are traditional in refried bean recipes, you can experiment with other types of beans like black beans or kidney beans. However, keep in mind that each type will change the flavor and texture slightly.

Q: How do I store leftover refried beans?

Store leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I reheat refried beans in the microwave?

Yes, but be sure to stir them frequently while reheating to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat.

Q: Are refried beans gluten-free?

Most traditional refried bean recipes are gluten-free since they’re made from pinto beans and spices. However, if you’re using store-bought broth or spices that contain gluten, make sure to check the labels.

Q: Can I make refried beans without any added fat?

You can make refried beans without added fat by using low-sodium broth or water as a substitute for some of the oil called for in the recipe.

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