Crispy Cheesy Refried Bean Tacos

Crispy Cheesy Refried Bean Tacos are a quick and satisfying meal that combines creamy beans, melty cheese, and perfectly crisped tortillas. These vegetarian tacos are a pantry-friendly favorite that delivers bold flavor and texture with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tacos are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and loaded with flavor. They’re fast, affordable, and super easy to customize. Perfect for busy weeknights, meatless Mondays, or anytime you want a delicious, comforting bite that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and make great leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Refried beans (canned or homemade)
• Small corn or flour tortillas
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Chili powder (optional)
• Salt
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce (for serving)

Directions

this recipe

1. In a small pan, warm the refried beans over low heat. Stir in garlic powder, cumin, chili powder (if using), and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
2. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and drizzle a bit of oil.
3. Spread a layer of refried beans on one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top of the beans.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape.
5. Place the folded tacos in the skillet, cooking 2–3 at a time. Press down lightly with a spatula and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining tacos, adding more oil as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 tacos.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped pickled jalapeños or green chilies inside for a spicy kick.
• Use vegan cheese and refried beans for a dairy-free version.
• Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra filling.
• Swap out refried beans for black beans mashed with seasoning.
• Turn them into breakfast tacos with scrambled eggs and beans.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the tortillas soft rather than crispy.
If freezing, store assembled but uncooked tacos between layers of parchment paper and cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought refried beans?

Yes, canned refried beans work perfectly and save time. Just season them to taste.

Can I make these tacos in the oven?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.

Are corn or flour tortillas better?

Both work well—corn gives a classic crispy texture, while flour gets a bit more golden and chewy.

Can I air fry these tacos?

Absolutely, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

How do I keep the tacos from falling apart?

Don’t overfill them, and press them down gently with a spatula while cooking to help seal them.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep and assemble them ahead, then cook when ready to serve for the best texture.

What type of cheese melts best for these?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and add great flavor.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

If using corn tortillas and gluten-free refried beans, yes, they can be completely gluten-free.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes, add shredded chicken, ground beef, or tofu along with the beans if desired.

What toppings go best with these?

Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and hot sauce all pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheesy Refried Bean Tacos are an easy, affordable, and mouthwatering meal you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these tacos are packed with flavor and texture, making them a perfect go-to for any taco night.

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