Need a quick, comforting side dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes? These Easy Microwave Refried Pinto Beans are your new go-to. Whether you’re topping nachos, stuffing burritos, or just need a simple side for taco night, this recipe has you covered—with just two ingredients and a microwave!
I make this side dish all the time when I make enchiladas or taco night. Or, when I make up plates of nachos for the whole family. It’s so simple and takes just minutes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Easy Microwaved Refried Beans
- Pinto beans
- Butter
- Optional: Ham or bacon slice
How to make Easy Microwaved Refried Beans
Drain your can of pinto beans completely.
Rinse them thoroughly until the water runs clear and there’s no more foam.
Transfer the beans to a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave for 1½ to 2 minutes, until warmed through.
Smash the beans using a potato masher or fork.
For ultra-smooth beans, use an immersion blender to puree. This is the fastest way, and my kids prefer them made this way.
Stir in the butter and mix until melted and combined. Add garlic or onion powder if you like!
Tips & Suggestions
- Swap in 1 teaspoon of bacon grease for a smoky twist.
- Add ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder to deepen the flavor.
- Toss in chopped cooked ham or crumbled bacon for a heartier dish.
- Serve these beans with enchiladas, tacos, or casseroles—or use them to make burritos, nachos, and more!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Recipes to Pair with this Recipe
- Microwave Mexican Casserole
- How to Make Easy Cheesy Enchiladas in the Microwave
- Let’s Make Beef Tacos in the Microwave
- Microwave Chicken Enchiladas
- How to make Easiest Cheesy Mexican Rice in Minutes
Microwave Refried Pinto Beans
Ingredients
- 15 oz can pinto beans
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1 slice of ham or bacon
Instructions
- Drain your can of pinto beans completely.
- Rinse them thoroughly until the water runs clear and there's no more foam.
- Transfer the beans to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave for 1½ to 2 minutes, until warmed through.
- Smash the beans using a potato masher or fork.
- For ultra-smooth beans, use an immersion blender to puree.
- Stir in the butter and mix until melted and combined. Add garlic or onion powder if you like!
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 203Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 807mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 5gSugar: 1gProtein: 16g
Any nutritional information on justmicrowaveit.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate.
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