How to Cook Pinto Beans

This handy guide will give you a complete overview on How to Cook Pinto Beans using dried beans. These are flavorful, creamy, and seasoned simply so that they will pair with any of your favorite Mexican-inspired recipes.

The Best Pinto Bean Recipe

Once you learn How to Cook Dry Pinto Beans, you will have a hard time going back to canned beans. Sure, it takes a little extra time but the result speaks for itself. These pinto beans are creamy, flavorful, and make the perfect side dish to go with tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and more. 

Below you will find a complete guide on How to Cook Pinto Beans on the stovetop, Instant Pot, and slow cooker whether they are soaked or unsoaked. We’ll also give you instructions on how to cook your beans with onions, garlic, and a delicious blend of savory spices and we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions. 

Don’t feel guilty about using canned beans if you are in a pinch – we’ll show you how to cook pinto beans from a can! Sometimes time is not on your side, but you can still make them even more delicious using this recipe. Plus, whether they’re canned or dried, pinto beans are full of fiber, protein, and tons of vitamins and minerals.

What to make with Pinto Beans

• Cheesy Bean Dip
• Crispy Bean Burritos
• Crockpot Beans and Rice
• Refried Beans
• Chipotle Beans
• 7 Layer Bean Dip

Ingredients in This Pinto Bean Recipe

• Pinto Beans – you can use either dried beans or canned to make this Pinto Beans Recipe.  We have given you instructions on how to do both.
• Avocado Oil – you can substitute another cooking oil if you like.
• Onions – we like to use white or yellow onions, finely diced.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic tastes best.
• Dried Oregano – if you can find Mexican oregano, use that.  Otherwise, Italian oregano will work.
• Spices: this recipe calls for adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin.  These are just for flavor and can be adjusted to your liking – how to season pinto beans is really up to you.  
• Salt – sea salt works great.
• Bay Leaves – fresh bay leaves have a far better flavor than dry bay leaves, if you can find them.  In order to make a fresh bay leaf last longer, store in your freezer for up to 6 months.
• Lime Juice – this is to season your pinto beans after they have cooked.  Fresh lime juice always tastes best.

How to Cook Pinto Beans On the Stove

1. Cook the beans. Pour beans into a large bowl and sort out any broken beans.  Rinse, drain and then add to a large pot. Cover with cool water about 1″ above the beans.  Place a lid on the pot and bring to a boil over medium high heat.  Reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beans are soft. (Note: If using canned pinto beans you can skip this step, but be sure to drain and  rinse the beans under cold water before using.)
2. Cook onions and garlic. In a large pot, add the avocado oil and heat over medium heat.  Add the minced onions and sauté until golden brown, or about 5-7 minutes.  Add minced garlic and cook until garlic is soft and tender, or about 2 more minutes. 
3. Add the beans and cook. Next, add in the cooked (or canned) pinto beans along with the oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and bay leaves.  Add water to just barely cover the beans. Bring the beans to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and continue to cook on medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until most of the water has evaporated and the beans are tender. 
4. Serve. Turn off the heat and remove the bay leaves.  Squeeze lime juice into the beans and serve immediately as a side dish or in burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads or nachos.  Enjoy!

How to Cook Pinto Beans In Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

1. Pour beans into a large bowl and sort out any broken beans.  Rinse the beans, drain, and then add to the Instant Pot. 
2. Close the Instant Pot and turn the steam release valve to the sealing position.  Pressure cook on high for 30 minutes, then let the Instant Pot natural release for about 15 minutes.
3. After 15 minutes, quick-release any remaining pressure.

Cooking Pinto Beans In A Slow Cooker

1. Pour beans into a large bowl and sort out any broken beans.  Rinse, drain and then add to the slow cooker.
2. Cover with cool water or broth, about 1″ above beans, and cook on high for 5-7 hours, or until beans are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Flavor Variations for Pinto Beans

• Spicy: For a kick of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers to your beans. You can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder for some extra oomph.
• Sweet: If you prefer your beans on the sweeter side, try adding a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup to your cooked beans.
• Savory: For a more savory flavor, try adding some diced onion, garlic, and celery to your beans. You can also add some bay leaves, thyme, or oregano.
• Smoky: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, you can add some smoked paprika or chipotle powder to your beans. You can also add some diced bacon or ham for an extra smoky kick.
• Cheesy: Who doesn’t love cheese? Try adding some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to your beans for a creamy and indulgent flavor.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerator: allow beans to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. 
• Freezer: if you would prefer, you can also freeze cooked pinto beans in an airtight container (or freezer bags) for up to 3 months.  You’ll want to transfer to the refrigerator overnight (or at least 6 hours) before using.
• To reheat: transfer to a saucepot and add a splash of water.  Heat over medium stirring occasionally until the beans are warmed through.  If you are reheating a small portion, you can also reheat in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds on high.

More Recipes With Beans

• Chipotle Black Beans
• Easy Refried Beans
• Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
• Cheesy Bean Dip
• 7-Layer Bean Dip
• Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe
• More of the Best Side Dishes
• More Mexican-Inspired Recipes

This Pinto Beans Recipe is a complete guide to making creamy, flavorful beans from scratch. We’ll show you how to cook pinto beans using dried beans, canned beans, over the stovetop, in the pressure cooker, and more.