Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting taste of classic Mexican refried beans but don’t want to fuss over a stove or a hot pan, you’re going to adore this Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe. It’s super hands-off, full of flavor, and the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to for easy weekday dinners, game day snacks, or any time you crave creamy, delicious beans. I absolutely love how this turns out every time — silky, rich, and with just the right touch of smoky spice.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create a richly flavored, creamy pot of refried beans without any complex steps or fancy products. Plus, most of these you probably have in your pantry already!

• Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth; diced finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that punchy aroma and warmth.
• Jalapeño pepper: Optional but highly recommended if you like a kick, just remember to remove seeds for less heat.
• Dry pinto beans: The star of the show—no soaking needed, which saves so much prep time.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness, elevating the flavor to authentic Mexican style.
• Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth, balancing the beans beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper: To season and bring all those flavors together.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Using broth instead of water enriches the beans with savory flavor as they cook.
• Avocado or olive oil: Stirred in at the end for creaminess and that silky texture.
• Optional toppings: Think shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, crumbled queso fresco, sliced green onions, jalapeño slices, and fresh cilantro to add brightness and fun textures.

Variations

I love playing around with this Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe depending on what I have on hand or the mood I’m in, and I encourage you to do the same! Whether you want to make it milder, spicier, or even dairy-free, these beans are a fantastic base to work from.

• Spicy Upgrade: Once, I added chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist that made these beans perfect for taco night with a punch.
• Vegan-Friendly: Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip cheese toppings—super simple and still delicious.
• Chunkier vs. Smooth Texture: I prefer leaving some beans a bit chunky, but if you want super smooth beans, blend with an immersion blender instead of mashing by hand.
• Herb Boost: Stir in fresh cilantro or oregano just before serving for extra brightness and freshness.

How to Make Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics and Beans

Start by dice your onion and mince the garlic—aromatics are everything here! Toss them into the slow cooker along with the diced jalapeño if you’re using it. Then rinse your dry pinto beans well under cold running water. I never soak the beans ahead of time with this method, which saves so much effort without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Step 2: Add Spices and Broth

Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper over the beans and aromatics. Pour in the broth—chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth works great if you want it vegetarian. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 10 hours or HIGH for around 6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. This long, gentle cooking brings out that creamy texture we want without any stirring.

Step 4: Mash and Stir in Oil

This is where your beans turn into refried beans magic! Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beans and veggies into a large bowl (leave the cooking liquid behind for now). Then add a cup of that broth back in and 2 tablespoons of your chosen oil. Mash everything with a potato masher or fork to your preferred consistency—somewhere between smooth and chunky is my personal favorite. Add salt to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve these Crockpot Refried Beans piping hot and garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, green onions, or even a few jalapeño slices if you’re feeling spicy. You can keep them warm in your slow cooker’s ‘Warm’ setting if you’re not serving immediately.

How to Serve Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my Crockpot Refried Beans with crumbled queso fresco for a mild salty crunch, plus fresh cilantro leaves and thinly sliced green onions for that fresh pop. Sometimes I go wild with shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of cotija cheese if I want it extra cheesy—so good!

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with homemade corn tortillas, tacos filled with grilled veggies or meat, or even alongside Mexican rice and a flavorful salad. I also love serving these beans as a dip with tortilla chips at casual gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

For taco nights or potlucks, I’ve served these beans in small ramekins topped with cheese and jalapeños for individual portions. Another fun idea is layering them in a Mexican casserole or using them in a hearty burrito bowl with all your favorite fixings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover refried beans in airtight containers and they keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cool them fully before refrigerating to preserve freshness. It’s so handy to have these ready for quick lunches or sides throughout the week.

Freezing

These beans freeze really well! I portion them into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, and they keep beautifully for up to 3 months. When I thaw them, I usually do it overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm them gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the beans creamy and prevent drying out. A quick zap in the microwave with a cover works too. Stir them occasionally as they heat to keep that silky texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Refried Beans Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s reliable, flavorful, and so easy to make on busy days. I love sharing it with friends who’re intimidated by refried beans, only to hear how it quickly became their go-to. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll have that creamy, comforting side dish ready in your arsenal anytime you want it. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying homemade refried beans can be.

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