Name: Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic; 1 jalapeño (optional, remove stem and seeds); 1 Tbsp cooking oil; 2 15oz cans pinto beans (one with liquid, one drained); 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp ground cumin; 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 dashes hot sauce; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe. It’s quick, comforting, and brings together the creamy richness of melted cheddar with the hearty, earthy flavor of pinto beans. Perfect as a side or a simple main, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into something truly special and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, these cheesy pinto beans will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver metal mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, there are light brown beans on one side, bright green chopped pieces beneath them, and a creamy beige liquid being poured from a clear container into the bowl, spreading over the beans and green pieces. The bowl's round shape and smooth interior reflect light softly, and the mixture layers create a mix of smooth, firm, and liquid textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe so irresistible.

Garlic (2 cloves): Adds a fragrant, savory base that complements the beans beautifully.
Jalapeño (1, optional): Brings a gentle heat and fresh kick—feel free to skip it if you prefer mild.
Cooking oil (1 Tbsp): Helps soften the aromatics and meld all the flavors together.
15oz cans pinto beans (2 cans): The star of the show, providing creamy texture and protein.
Smoked paprika (1/4 tsp): Infuses a subtle smoky depth that makes each bite more exciting.
Ground cumin (1/4 tsp): Adds warm, earthy notes that highlight the beans.
Freshly cracked black pepper (1/8 tsp): Offers a mild heat and enhances overall flavor.
Hot sauce (2 dashes): Just enough to brighten and elevate the dish without overpowering it.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the beans for that creamy, cheesy goodness that turns this into pure comfort food.

How to Make Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Start by mincing your garlic cloves and finely dicing the jalapeño—remember to deseed it if you want to keep the heat gentle. This little prep sets the stage by bringing fresh, bold flavors to the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño

In a pot, warm the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapeño, sautéing for about one minute until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky aroma. This quick step softens the ingredients and allows their flavors to mingle into the oil, creating a flavor-packed base.

Step 3: Purée One Can of Beans

Pour one can of pinto beans, liquid and all, into a blender and blend until smooth. This step adds creaminess and thickness to the dish, making the beans luscious without needing extra cream or dairy beyond the cheese.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Aromatics

Add the puréed beans and the second can of drained beans into your pot with the sautéed garlic and jalapeño. Stir everything together so every bean is coated with the fragrant base.

Step 5: Season the Beans

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, freshly cracked pepper, and a couple of dashes of hot sauce. Stir to blend all the spices evenly. The seasoning layers wonderful smoky, earthy, and spicy notes that elevate the beans beyond simple comfort food.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese

Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring over medium heat until the cheese has melted smoothly into the beans, giving the dish its signature creamy, cheesy texture that is simply addictive.

How to Serve Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe

The image shows a metal pot filled with a smooth, light brown bean soup mixed with whole beans. On top of the soup, there are thin, shredded yellow cheese pieces and a few small green cilantro leaves scattered as garnish. A spatula with a dark gray head and a light wooden handle is resting inside the pot, partially lifting some of the soup. The pot sits on a white marbled surface next to a white bowl containing whole garlic bulbs and two green jalapeño peppers. A yellow and white zigzag patterned cloth is placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the rich, cheesy beans. These simple touches make the dish pop and feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or warm cornbread, soaking up every last bit of that luscious cheese sauce. It also works as a hearty side to grilled meats, tacos, or roasted veggies, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the beans stuffed inside warm tortillas for quick bean and cheese burritos, or use them as a topping for baked potatoes. This recipe is flexible and can adapt to whatever you have on hand or cravings you want to satisfy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cheesy pinto beans in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it super convenient to enjoy later.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, too! Just transfer cooled beans into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and help the cheese stay melted and creamy. You can add a splash of water or broth if it feels too thick after refrigerating or freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheddar cheese or swap it for a vegan cheese alternative, and you’ll still enjoy creamy, flavorful beans.

Do I have to use canned beans?

Canned beans are perfect for this quick recipe because they save time and maintain great flavor. However, if using dried beans, be sure to soak and cook them beforehand.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of heat is mild by default but can be adjusted by how much jalapeño you include and how generous you are with the hot sauce. Feel free to tailor it to your spice preferences.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Cheddar works wonderfully for its sharpness and meltability, but Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a smoky Gouda can add an exciting twist.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The entire Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a fast, comforting meal any day of the week.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Pinto Beans Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create something truly delightful. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor—a dish that feels like home every time you eat it. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen!