No Soak Instant Pot Refried Beans: Easy and Delicious
Looking for the best homemade refried beans that blow canned beans out of the water? This No Soak Instant Pot Refried Beans recipe is just what you need. With tender pinto beans, warm cumin, and a burst of incredible flavor, these beans will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Refried Beans
- Better than Canned: Fresh, homemade flavor beats canned beans any day.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, these beans take just about an hour with minimal prep.
- Versatile: Use dry pinto beans or substitute with black beans or kidney beans.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve as a dip, in burritos, or as a side dish topped with cheese and Taco Bell Red Sauce.
No Soak Instant Pot Refried Beans
Yield: 6 cups
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry pinto beans
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or bacon fat
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeno, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth, divided
- 3 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 pound thick sliced bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Beans: Rinse the dry pinto beans thoroughly under cold water, picking out any damaged beans. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the SAUTE setting. Heat the oil, then add the onion, jalapeno, and bacon (if using). Sauté for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Deglaze and Cook: Deglaze the pot with 1/4 cup chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Add the remaining chicken broth, water, bay leaves, salt, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and the rinsed beans. Stir gently, then secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to HIGH pressure for 45 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 25 minutes, then turn the vent to quick release any remaining pressure.
- Mash the Beans: Remove the bay leaves. Reserve 2 cups of the cooking liquid, then drain the rest. Use an immersion blender or potato masher to puree the beans to your desired consistency, adding the reserved liquid as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Top your refried beans with grated cheddar cheese, queso fresco, or your favorite toppings. These beans are perfect for Taco Tuesday, as a dip with tortilla chips, or in a bean burrito.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Additional Tips
For more great recipes, check out my Pinterest Instant Pot board!
Enjoy the best no-soak Instant Pot refried beans with creamy texture and rich flavor, perfect for any Mexican meal or craving.