About this recipe
Hear me out, I know there is nothing like refried beans made from scratch, but sometimes we just don’t have the time. So, reheating canned refried beans doesn’t have to mean bland or boring. In just a few minutes, you can transform a can of refried beans into a creamy, flavorful side dish that tastes just like homemade.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with pantry staples.
- One-pan magic: All you need is a saucepan or microwave.
- Better flavor: Say goodbye to bland, pasty beans—this method adds life and richness.
- Flexible: Works with any canned refried beans—pinto, black bean, vegan or traditional.
Home Cook to Home Cook Tips
- Too thick? Keep adding warm water, broth, or even plant milk, a tablespoon at a time.
- Too bland? A dash of hot sauce, chipotle powder, or salsa verde can quickly wake it up.
- Make it creamy: A spoonful of sour cream, vegan crema, or even cashew cream can take it to the next level.
- Use it up: Leftover refried beans are great in quesadillas, tostadas, or layered into breakfast burritos.
Storage and Reheating Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the texture.
How to Reheat Canned Refried Beans (Best Easy Method)
Ingredients
- 1 can of refried beans any kind
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter optional but recommended
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion optional
- ¼ cup water vegetable broth, or milk of choice (to loosen the texture)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Stovetop Method (Best flavor)
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Optional: Sauté the chopped onion with a pinch of salt until translucent—about 3–5 minutes.
- Add the canned refried beans.
- Pour in the water or broth a little at a time, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, and season with salt to taste.
- Variation: Add a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, or a splash of lime juice for extra flavor.
Microwave Method (Fastest)
- Scoop the beans into a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of water or broth and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel.
- Heat for 1 minute, stir, then heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stir in a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter for creaminess.
information
Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
- About the Author
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I'm Ale Graf, a Mexican living in Texas and the creator of AleCooks and Piloncillo&Vainilla. I share easy, family-friendly recipes — some Mexican, mostly plant-based — made to be enjoyed all day, every day. With a degree in Art History and a Certification as a Professional Plant-Based Cook, I've spent over a decade creating content where my two passions — food and storytelling — come together.
My focus is on recipes that bring people together around the table, making mealtime simple, delicious and meaningful. I'm also the author of Yo Cocino Latino, and my recipes have been featured in numerous online magazines and publications.
Follow along on my social accounts for daily inspiration, tips, and delicious recipes! And if you ever try one of my dishes — or have a favorite family recipe of your own — I'd love to hear about it! Send me a DM on Instagram, and let’s talk all things food 🍽️✨