23 Delicious Family Meals Using Refried Beans
Are you looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate refried beans into your family meals? Look no further! As a busy parent, I know how important it is to have quick and easy meal options that are also delicious and nutritious. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 25+ meals that use refried beans as a key ingredient.
Whether you’re feeding a large family or cooking for just a few, these meals are sure to please. So, grab a can of refried beans and let’s get cooking!
Why Use Refried Beans?
Refried beans are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of family meals. Here are a few reasons why I love using refried beans:
- Convenient: Canned refried beans are a convenient and easy ingredient to have on hand. They can be quickly heated up and added to a variety of dishes.
- Healthy: Refried beans are a great source of protein and fiber. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
- Budget-friendly: Refried beans are an affordable ingredient that can help stretch your food budget further.
- Flavorful: Refried beans have a rich, savory flavor that adds depth to any dish. They are a staple in Mexican cuisine and can be used in a variety of other cuisines as well.
Overall, refried beans are a great ingredient to have on hand for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. They are versatile, healthy, and budget-friendly, making them an excellent addition to any family meal.
Breakfast Meals
Refried beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many breakfast dishes. Here are a few of my favorite breakfast meals that use refried beans:
1.Burrito Bowl
A burrito bowl is a great way to start the day. Simply add refried beans, rice, scrambled eggs, and your favorite toppings to a bowl. Some of my favorite toppings include avocado, salsa, cheese, and sour cream. This meal is filling and packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day.
2. Scrambled Egg & Refried Bean Breakfast Burrito
A breakfast burrito is a classic breakfast dish that can be made even better with the addition of refried beans. Scramble some eggs and mix in some refried beans. Add cheese and your favorite toppings to a tortilla and wrap it up. This meal is easy to make and can be customized to your liking.
3. Breakfast Quesadilla
A breakfast quesadilla is another great way to use refried beans. Spread some refried beans on a tortilla and add scrambled eggs, cheese, and any other toppings you like. Fold the tortilla in half and cook it in a pan until the cheese is melted. This meal is easy to make and can be customized to your liking.
Snacks and Appetizers
When it comes to family meals, snacks and appetizers are a must-have. Refried beans can be used in a variety of delicious and easy-to-prepare snacks and appetizers that will satisfy your family’s cravings. Here are some of my favorite refried bean snacks and appetizers:
4. Seven Layer Dip
7 Layer Dip is a classic party dish that everyone loves. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your family’s liking. To make this dip, layer refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, and sliced black olives in a baking dish. Serve with tortilla chips and watch it disappear!
5. Refried Bean Dip
Refried Bean Dip is another tasty snack that can be made in minutes. Simply mix refried beans, salsa, and shredded cheese together in a bowl. Microwave for a minute or two until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through. Serve with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for a healthy twist.
6. Refried Bean Hummus
If you’re looking for a unique twist on traditional hummus, try making Refried Bean Hummus. Simply blend together refried beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies for a healthy snack.
7. Bean and Cheese Taquitos
Bean and Cheese Taquitos are a fun and easy appetizer that your family will love. To make these taquitos, spread refried beans and shredded cheese on a tortilla. Roll up tightly and place on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Serve with salsa and sour cream for dipping.
Lunch and Dinner Meals
Refried beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used to make a variety of delicious and filling meals for lunch and dinner. Here are some of my favorite recipes:
8. Taco Salad
Taco salad is a classic dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. To make this dish, start by cooking ground beef with taco seasoning. Then, layer lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and refried beans in a bowl. Top with the cooked ground beef and your favorite taco toppings, like sour cream and salsa.
9. Enchiladas
Enchiladas are another classic Mexican dish that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, start by filling tortillas with refried beans, cheese, and any other fillings you like, such as chicken or beef. Roll up the tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Cover with enchilada sauce and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
10. Taco Casserole
Taco casserole is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd. To make this dish, layer tortilla chips, refried beans, ground beef, cheese, and salsa in a baking dish. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and serve with your favorite taco toppings.
11. Fajitas
Fajitas are a flavorful and healthy meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, cook sliced chicken or beef with onions and peppers. Serve the fajitas with refried beans, rice, and your favorite toppings, like guacamole and sour cream.
12. Vegetarian Tostadas
Vegetarian tostadas are a delicious and healthy meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, start by layering a tostada shell with refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Top with your favorite toppings, like avocado and salsa.
13. Refried Beans & Rice Skillet
Refried beans and rice skillet is a quick and easy meal that can be made in one pan. To make this dish, cook rice in a skillet with refried beans, salsa, and cheese. Top with your favorite toppings, like sour cream and cilantro.
14. Bean and Cheese Burritos
Bean and cheese burritos are a simple and satisfying meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, fill tortillas with refried beans and cheese. Roll up the tortillas and cook in a skillet until golden brown and crispy.
15. Mexican Pizza
Mexican pizza is a fun and delicious meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, layer a tortilla with refried beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings, like ground beef and tomatoes. Bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
16. Queso Chicken Casserole
Queso chicken casserole is a cheesy and delicious meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, layer cooked chicken, refried beans, cheese, and queso sauce in a baking dish. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
17. Burrito Rice Bowls
We love to make rice bowls at our house as a great way to use up leftovers. For burrito style rice bowls, we start with white or yellow rice, any leftover ground beef or chicken mixed with taco seasoning, and then we add the beans and vegetables! This is a great way to use up leftover carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and more.
18. Crispy Potato & Refried Bean Tacos
Crispy potato and refried bean tacos are a unique and flavorful meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, cook diced potatoes until crispy and golden brown. Fill tortillas with refried beans, crispy potatoes, and your favorite toppings, like avocado and salsa.
19. Mexican Lasagna
Mexican lasagna is a hearty and filling meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, layer tortillas with refried beans, ground beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
20. Nachos
Nachos are a fun and easy meal that can be made with refried beans. To make this dish, layer tortilla chips with refried beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings, like ground beef and tomatoes. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Soups and Stews
Refried beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of soups and stews. Here are three delicious recipes that are perfect for family meals:
21. Cheesy Refried Bean Soup
This soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. To make it, you’ll need a can of refried beans, can of whole corn, can of chicken broth, can of stewed tomatoes, 1 can of chopped green chiles, salsa, and shredded cheddar cheese. To make the soup, combine the refried beans, corn, chicken broth, tomatoes, water, green chiles, and salsa in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve with tortilla chips on top.
22. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold day. Adding a can of refried beans to the soup gives it a rich and creamy texture, while also adding a boost of protein and fiber. The beans help to thicken the soup, making it more satisfying and filling. The soup is typically made with chicken broth, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, such as cumin and chili powder. Topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, this soup is a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
23. Black Bean Soup
Black Bean Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Adding a can of refried beans to the soup gives it a creamy and smooth texture, while also adding a boost of protein and fiber. The soup is typically made with black beans, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and a variety of spices, such as cumin and chili powder. Topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, this soup is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. It’s also a great way to use up leftover beans and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly option for meal planning.
Conclusion
Refried beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different meals for families. From tacos to burritos, soups to salads, and even burgers, there are endless possibilities to create delicious and nutritious meals using refried beans.
Throughout this article, I have shared over 25 different meal ideas that can be made with refried beans. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate, there is something for everyone.
One of the great things about refried beans is that they are affordable and readily available at most grocery stores. They are also packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
So the next time you are looking for a meal idea for your family, consider using refried beans as a base. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find a recipe that everyone will love.
For more meal ideas, check out “30 ways to eat Wheat Thins” and “47 Ideas for leftover Sloppy Joe meat.“
