Description
Learn how to make incredibly thick and creamy pinto beans from scratch with this easy recipe. Perfect for weeknight meals or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 8 cups water, plus more if needed
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, shredded cheese, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, hot sauce
Instructions
- 1. Sort through dried pinto beans to remove any debris and rinse them thoroughly.
- 2. Soak the beans overnight or use a quick soak method (boil for 1 minute, then let sit covered for 1 hour). Drain and rinse.
- 3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 6. Add the drained beans to the pot, then pour in 8 cups of water and add the bay leaf.
- 7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 3 hours, or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more hot water if needed.
- 8. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9. To thicken, mash some beans against the side of the pot or mash 1-2 cups of beans and liquid separately and return to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
- 10. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Notes
Store cooked pinto beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They can also be frozen for 3-4 months in freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of liquid.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 1.5-3 hours
- Category: Main Dishes/Side Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 250-300 per serving (without toppings)
- Sugar: Approx. 2g
- Sodium: Approx. 300mg (will vary based on added salt)
- Fat: Approx. 3g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 45g
- Fiber: Approx. 15g
- Protein: Approx. 15g