Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bowl of refried black beans

Refried Black Beans Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 2 reviews
  • Author: Emily Dingmann of myeverydaytable.com
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (1/2 cup) 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Make the best refried black beans with this easy recipe using canned black beans. Smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 white onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3-15 oz. cans black beans (drained, but reserve liquid)
  • 1 1/2 cups liquid from canned beans

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion to pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until soft. Add garlic to pan and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
    Sauteing onions in white skillet.
  2. Add beans and liquid to the pan and combine with onions. Bring to a simmer. Turn heat to low and cook at a low simmer for about 9-14 minutes until most of liquid has evaporated.
    Black beans in skillet for black refried beans.
  3. Mash beans to desired consistency. Season with salt to taste. 
    Skillet with mashed refried black beans from a can.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a hot skillet until warmed through.

Ingredients: Using canned beans is an intentional shortcut here – and a great one. If you prefer to cook your own black beans, measure out about 4.5 cups of beans and 1 cup of cooking liquid as a substitute. (If using the Instant Pot to cook from scratch, you can mash them right in the pot – just drain a little of the extra liquid first.)

Prep ahead: These beans are genuinely make-ahead friendly. Cook a batch on Sunday and use them throughout the week for burritos, tostadas, quesadillas, or a quick side.