5 minute vegetarian recipes refried beans 5 Minute Vegetarian Recipes With Tasty Refried Beans

Updated On: October 4, 2025

5 Minute Vegetarian Recipes: Refried Beans

When you’re pressed for time but craving a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meal, vegetarian refried beans come to the rescue. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute snacks, or when you want to add a protein-packed side to your meal without a fuss.

Not only are refried beans delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile, making them a staple in vegetarian kitchens worldwide. Whether you spread them on a tortilla, use them as a dip, or incorporate them into your favorite dishes, these beans deliver rich flavor and comforting texture in just five minutes.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a simple, flavorful recipe for vegetarian refried beans that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and serving ideas that will elevate your bean game.

So, let’s get cooking and enjoy a delicious, nutritious treat in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 5-minute vegetarian refried beans recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, wholesome meals. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

  • Speedy and simple: Ready in just 5 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
  • Healthy and vegetarian: Packed with protein and fiber, with no meat or complicated ingredients.
  • Customizable: Easily adjusted to your preferred spice level and flavor profile.
  • Versatile: Great for tacos, burritos, dips, or as a side dish.
  • Cost-effective: Uses pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water (more if needed)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Medium skillet or non-stick pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Can opener

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Place your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes or until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir constantly for about 20 seconds to toast the spices and release their aroma.
  4. Add the beans: Pour the drained and rinsed pinto beans into the skillet. Stir to combine with the onions and spices.
  5. Mash the beans: Using the back of your spoon or a potato masher, gently mash the beans in the pan. Add vegetable broth or water a little at a time to reach your desired creamy consistency.
  6. Cook and season: Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and heats through. Taste and add salt as needed.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For creamier beans, add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.”

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Make it vegan: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan or substitute with water. Avoid dairy toppings or use vegan yogurt.
  • Add texture: Stir in some chopped roasted peppers or diced tomatoes for more color and flavor.
  • Use black beans: Substitute pinto beans with canned black beans for a different twist.
  • Batch prep: Double the recipe and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 160 kcal
Protein 9 grams
Carbohydrates 27 grams
Dietary Fiber 7 grams
Fat 3 grams
Sodium 350 mg (varies by canned beans)
Iron 2 mg

Serving Suggestions

These refried beans make a fantastic base or side dish for many meals. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:

  • Tacos and burritos: Spread on tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and shredded cheese.
  • Mexican bowls: Combine with rice, grilled vegetables, and your favorite toppings for a nutritious bowl.
  • Dips: Serve warm with tortilla chips, adding a dollop of guacamole or pico de gallo.
  • Breakfast: Use as a hearty side with scrambled eggs or check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe for a complete meal.
  • Sandwich spread: Use as a flavorful layer in vegetarian sandwiches or wraps.

Conclusion

In just five minutes, you can whip up a batch of delicious, creamy vegetarian refried beans that are as versatile as they are satisfying. This recipe proves that fast food doesn’t have to be unhealthy or bland — with a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you get a nourishing dish bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just someone looking for quick meal ideas, these refried beans are a must-have in your kitchen repertoire.

Next time you need a protein-packed side or a quick snack, give this recipe a try. You might also enjoy pairing it with other hearty dishes like the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe or exploring more vegetarian-friendly options like the Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes.

Whatever your choice, these refried beans will add a comforting touch to your meals, and they’ll be ready before you know it!

📖 Recipe Card: 5 Minute Vegetarian Refried Beans

Description: A quick and easy vegetarian refried beans recipe perfect for a fast meal or snack. Ready in just five minutes with simple ingredients.

Prep Time: PT2M
Cook Time: PT3M
Total Time: PT5M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
  3. Add black beans, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Mash beans with a fork or potato masher until creamy.
  6. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 20g

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “5 Minute Vegetarian Refried Beans”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A quick and easy vegetarian refried beans recipe perfect for a fast meal or snack. Ready in just five minutes with simple ingredients.”, “prepTime”: “PT2M”, “cookTime”: “PT3M”, “totalTime”: “PT5M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed”, “1 tablespoon olive oil”, “1/2 small onion, finely chopped”, “1 garlic clove, minced”, “1/2 teaspoon ground cumin”, “1/4 teaspoon chili powder”, “Salt to taste”, “1/4 cup vegetable broth or water”, “Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add onion and garlic; saut\u00e9 for 1-2 minutes until softened.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add black beans, cumin, chili powder, and salt.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour in vegetable broth and cook for 1 minute.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mash beans with a fork or potato masher until creamy.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Cook for another minute, stirring frequently.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “150”, “proteinContent”: “8g”, “fatContent”: “5g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “20g”}}

Photo of author

Marta K

Leave a Comment

X