Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the crispy crunch of fried tortillas with the creamy richness of refried beans, all topped off with melty cheese. Homemade refried beans elevate the dish, adding a depth of flavor that canned beans can’t match. The tacos are easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious. Plus, they’re vegetarian (and can be made vegan) while still being incredibly hearty and filling. The crispy texture, paired with the creamy filling and melted cheese, makes for an irresistible bite every time.
Ingredients
- Homemade refried beans (or leftover refried beans)
- 6-inch flour tortillas (soft and buttery preferred)
- Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese of choice (vegan option works too)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Start by preparing the refried beans if you haven’t already. Homemade refried beans are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use leftover beans if you have them.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a bit of vegetable oil.
- Once the pan is hot, place a tortilla in the skillet and spread a generous amount of refried beans over half of the tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese, then fold the tortilla over to create a taco shape.
- Add a little more oil to the pan, and carefully fry the taco on each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip and fry the other side until crispy as well.
- Remove the taco from the skillet and drain any excess oil on a paper towel. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Servings and timing
This recipe typically yields about 4-6 tacos, depending on the amount of filling used and the size of your tortillas. The total prep and cooking time is about 15-20 minutes.
Variations
- Vegan: Use vegan cheddar or a non-dairy cheese substitute, and ensure your refried beans are made without any animal-based products like lard.
- Spicy Refried Beans: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to your refried beans for an extra kick.
- Vegetable Filling: For a heartier option, try adding some sautéed veggies, like onions, peppers, and corn, to the beans before frying.
- Baked version: Instead of frying the tacos, bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes until crispy.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover crispy tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the taco shells.
FAQs
Can I use canned refried beans for this recipe?
While homemade refried beans provide better flavor, canned beans will work in a pinch. Just make sure to heat them up well and add your own seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, can be substituted. Vegan cheese options are also available if you prefer a dairy-free version.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
Add jalapeños to the refried beans or sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper in the filling before folding and frying the tacos.
Can I freeze these tacos?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the tacos before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, fry them directly from the freezer.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas will work, but they won’t be as soft and pliable as flour tortillas. You may need to handle them more carefully while frying.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the refried beans in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few days. Just heat the beans before using them in the recipe. However, the tacos are best enjoyed freshly fried.
How do I prevent the tacos from getting soggy?
To keep the tacos crispy, don’t overfill them with beans or cheese. Make sure to fry them immediately after assembling.
What are some topping ideas for these tacos?
Some great topping options include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro.
Can I use a different oil for frying?
While vegetable oil is ideal because of its high smoke point, you can use other oils like canola or sunflower oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil.
Conclusion
Crispy refried bean tacos are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy shell, creamy beans, and melty cheese, each bite is packed with flavor. Whether you make them vegetarian or vegan, they’re sure to be a hit. Customize with your favorite toppings, and you have a versatile, delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
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Crispy Refried Bean Tacos
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Refried Bean Tacos are a delicious twist on a classic Mexican dish. Packed with flavorful homemade refried beans, crispy tortillas, and melted cheese, these tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Customizable for vegans and vegetarians, they’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and full of rich flavors. Whether you add extra spice or sautéed veggies, these tacos are a treat for everyone.
Ingredients
Homemade refried beans (or leftover refried beans)
6-inch flour tortillas (soft and buttery preferred)
Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese of choice (vegan option available)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
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Prepare the refried beans (homemade or leftover).
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
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Place a tortilla in the skillet, spread refried beans over half, and sprinkle with cheese. Fold the tortilla to form a taco shape.
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Add oil to the pan, and fry the taco for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
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Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve with toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Notes
Vegan option: Use vegan cheese and ensure refried beans are made without animal products.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the refried beans.
You can bake the tacos at 400°F for about 10 minutes for a healthier alternative to frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
