Easy recipes with pinto beans
Got pinto beans and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.
Refried Pinto Beans with Crispy Onions and Cotija
15 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianmexican-inspired
Cilantro Lime Pinto Beans with Charred Jalapeño
15 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianfresh
Charred-Cumin Pinto Beans with Crispy Onions and Lime
15 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianbold-flavors
Smoky Pinto Bean & Chorizo Skillet
15 min Serves 4weeknightone-panmexican-inspired
Cumin-Braised Pinto Beans with Crispy Garlic Toast
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancozy
Cilantro-Lime Pinto Beans with Crispy Shallots
15 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianmexican-inspired
Creamy Pinto Beans with Chorizo and Lime
20 min Serves 4weeknightmexicancomfort food
Lime-Cilantro Pinto Beans with Charred Corn
12 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianfresh
Common questions
- Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried beans?
- Yes, one 15-ounce can of drained pinto beans equals about 1.5 cups cooked beans or roughly 1/2 cup dried beans. Canned beans save significant time and work great in most recipes, though dried beans are more economical if you're cooking for a family.
- How long do cooked pinto beans last in the refrigerator?
- Cooked pinto beans will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge, or up to 3 months if frozen in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freezing extra beans is a great way to have quick meals ready throughout the month.
- What are good side dishes to serve with pinto bean recipes?
- Pinto beans pair well with rice, cornbread, fresh salsa, avocado, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They're also delicious wrapped in tortillas with cheese and toppings for a budget-friendly meal.
- Can I substitute pinto beans for other types of beans in a recipe?
- Yes, black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas work well as substitutes since they have similar cooking times and textures, though the flavor will differ slightly. Avoid using lentils as a direct substitute since they cook much faster.
- How can I make pinto bean recipes healthier and cheaper?
- Swap ground meat for extra beans or lentils to boost fiber and protein while reducing cost and fat, and add plenty of vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes for nutrition. Using dried beans instead of canned cuts costs in half while adding vegetables stretches the recipe further.