Cheesy Pinto Beans
Cheesy Pinto Beans is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together quickly using simple pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe transforms hearty pinto beans into a cheesy, indulgent side or main dish that the whole family will enjoy.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Beans and Dairy
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Prepare Your Beans: If using canned pinto beans, rinse and drain them well to reduce excess sodium and improve texture. For dried beans, soak overnight and cook until tender before starting the recipe.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely diced onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Combine Beans and Liquids: Add the pinto beans to the skillet along with milk or cream and stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly and become creamy.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly so it melts evenly without clumping. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili powder to taste.
- Final Touch and Serve: Once the cheese is fully melted and the beans have a thick, creamy consistency, remove from heat. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness.
Notes
- Use fresh cheese: freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Don’t overheat: keep the heat low while melting cheese to prevent graininess or separation.
- Adjust creaminess: add more milk or cream if you prefer a thinner, soupier texture.
- Salt judiciously: taste before adding salt as canned beans can already be seasoned.
- Reserve some beans: set aside a small portion of beans to stir in last for extra texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cheesy pinto beans, comfort food, quick dinner, easy side dish, creamy beans, cheesy beans, pinto beans recipe