Homemade Refried Black Beans are not only healthier, but indescribably rich. Despite it's simple ingredients, this recipe packs big creamy flavor with a perfect smooth texture.

Refried Black Beans

Refried black beans are indescribably better than their canned counterparts. They are so smooth and warm and creamy with the absolute perfect texture. Plus there's no weird metallic aftertaste from the can. Just all fresh, simple ingredients.

They're naturally vegan, dairy free, gluten free, and pretty healthy. But none of that takes away from the absolute perfect flavor of making your refried beans from scratch.

What are refried black beans?

Refried black beans are just like your average refried beans, except instead of using pinto beans, refried black beans are made with black beans.

Despite their name, refried beans are not actually fried twice. They get their name from the Spanish name of the dish, frijoles refritos.

First the beans are cooked to soften them. Then they are fried or sauteed in fat, traditionally lard and in this recipe olive oil, with onions and seasonings and mashed.

How to Use Refried Black Beans

Refried black beans make a perfect side to any Mexican dish, such as tacos or fajitas. My kids actually like to put the beans in their tacos, which makes them extra delicious. (Brilliant, those kids of mine.)

They also make a great topping for nachos, or you can use them in recipes such as this simple taco dip or these 3 bean enchiladas.

Can You Use Canned Beans?

Yes! Instead of 1 pound of dry beans, use 4 (15 ounce) cans black beans. Don't drain the beans, and just follow the recipe instructions for refrying. (so skip soaking and cooking portions.)

Close up of refried black beans in a black bowl surrounded by a striped linen, tortilla chips, a cup of salsa, and a lime.

Remember to Soak the Black Beans!

Soaking your beans is a must for this recipe. Beans should be soaked in a large bowl with enough water to cover the beans, plus 2 more inches. Soak for 4-12 hours with 1-2 teaspoons salt.

Forget to soak your beans?! Don't worry. You can still make these tasty beans right now.

For express bean soaking, boil water in a large pot. Place beans in a large bowl, and pour boiling water over beans until they're covered, plus an inch. Then let soak for an hour before cooking.

Add Some Flare to Your Beans!

For a little extra spice, add some diced green chiles to your beans while refrying. It's a super simple way to add a lot of extra flavor.

My favorite way to dress up my beans is with toppings. Some of my favorites include fresh cilantro, cotija cheese or chihuahua cheese (depending on whether I'm in the mood for extra flavor or extra melty comfort type cheese), fresh jalapenos, or homemade pico de gallo.

More Mexican Recipes You'll Love

Restaurant Salsa - zesty and fresh salsa, just like at your favorite Mexican joint but SO EASY to make in a food processor!
Authentic Guacamole - creamy and fresh guacamole that will have you coming back for bite after bite.
Easy Skirt Steak Fajitas - perfectly seasoned skirt steak, seared to perfection with onions and peppers for a classic Mexican favorite.
Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice - just like the restaurant with all fresh ingredients!
Chipotle Barbacoa - simple slow cooker recipe packed with spicy earthy flavor (make it with that cilantro lime rice recipe above!)