This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Are you trying to decide what to make with canned pinto beans? We’ve gathered our go-to canned pinto beans recipes that will make your meals fantastic! Pinto beans are one of those foods that seem to always be in the pantry. Unfortunately, most of us aren’t bursting at the seams with canned pinto beans recipes.
I mean, there are only so many things you can do with them, right? Wrong. Pinto beans are delicious, versatile, and nutritious. All you need is a little extra spice and some imagination, and all of a sudden, you’ve taken a nearly expired can of pinto beans and turned it into a culinary masterpiece.
Done are the days of simply slopping some pintos into a loaded burrito, and you can forget about just using them as an afterthought addition to your chili. These recipes will open up your eyes to new and exciting pinto possibilities and leave your friends and family both full and delighted.
Cowboy Caviar
It is made with a mix of beans, sweet corn, and crunchy vegetables tossed in a tangy marinade. It can serve as a dip or topping on grilled meat or a side dish.
WANT TO SAVE THIS?
7 Layer Dip Cups
These 7-layer dip cups might just be the ultimate party snack! They’re perfect for game day, potlucks, and any festive gathering, made with creamy guacamole, zesty salsa, and your favorite toppings.

Sheet Pan Ground Beef Nachos
Sheet pan nachos come out of the oven ready to feed a crowd with just a handful of easy ingredients. With melted Colby Jack layered over everything and protein-rich refried beans anchoring the layers, this comfort food makes a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Mild 3 Bean Chili
This very mild and flavorful 3-Bean Chili Recipe is one of those comfort foods that just warms the belly and the soul too. 3 bean chili has enough vegetable protein in it that you could make it vegetarian and leave out the beef.

Everyone knows rice and beans go together like peanut butter and jelly, so why not play to the strengths of the canned pinto beans hanging out in your cupboard? This recipe takes a classic pairing to a new level with fresh ingredients and lots of yummy spices, making it a must for every Mexican night. Serve them with fajitas, quesadillas, or just about any Mexican dish for the perfect pairing.
A close second to rice and beans is ham and beans. The beauty of this recipe is that it delivers all the flavor and texture of a slow cooker ham and beans dish in only 90 minutes. Don’t waste time wondering what to do with canned pinto beans when you can emulate a savory crockpot meal in less than half the time.
Garnish with jalapenos, pair with sweet cornbread, and relish every bite.
Soup doesn’t have to be full of dairy and meat to be delicious. This vegan soup is a favorite on the list of recipes with pinto beans. The onion, green pepper, and tomatoes give the dish a fresh-from-the-garden nuance, and the chipotle peppers in adobo bring the heat.
Top your pinto bean soup with avocado or green onion, and serve alongside vegan quesadillas.
Recipes with canned pinto beans don’t have to be one-size-fits-all. Even if you’re making a classic Mexican pinto bean dish, there is still lots of room for culinary exploration and fun. With these charro beans, you can take as many- or as few- liberties as you like.
Dress them up, dress them down, whatever you’re in the mood for. They’re mouthwatering either way.

We know you can get already refried beans in a can, but this recipe is a no-brainer if you’re wondering what to make with canned pinto beans. By making refried beans from (semi) scratch, you’ll get a creamier, less sticky consistency with way more flavor that you’ll want to eat with just about everything. Whether it’s tacos, quesadillas, or just plain chips, these refried beans will be the perfect companion.

If you’ve never had or heard of flautas, prepare to have your mind blown. For those of you who aren’t quite sure what to do with canned pinto beans but want something more than simmered beans or a side dish, these flautas are your new best friend. Their crispy tortilla shell is filled with warm, delicious beans, cheese, veggies, and seasonings making it hard to stop munching.

The bottom line
Beans don’t have to be basic, even when they come from a can. These canned pinto beans recipes have the versatility, ease, and flavor to become part of your regular cooking routine. So the next time you’re staring down a can of pintos in the pantry, dont look away; get creative.
Looking for what to serve with pinto beans? Here are recipes you can pair it with!

