Instant Pot Pinto Beans

Instant Pot Pinto Beans are tender, full of flavor and so easy to make in a pressure cooker. This no-soak pinto beans recipe can be ready to serve in just over 30 minutes! Enjoy them as a main dish with a fresh salad and cornbread. Or pair them with your favorite Mexican dish, from tacos to enchiladas.

I used to be so intimidated to cook dry beans from scratch. And never really thought there was much of a difference from just buying them in a can. But once I actually made pinto beans from scratch, I can totally understood why some people take the time to make homemade pinto beans. Yes, canned beans are convenient when we’re in a hurry, but homemade pinto beans are SO much tastier!

Something else that’s great about making your own beans is you can control the firmness and texture. You can also change up the seasonings and control the amount of salt.

Ingredients Needed:

Just 2 key ingredients is all you really need to make this recipe – dry pinto beans and water! But if you want to add a little extra flavor to your beans, here’s some delicious options to try: 

• Vegetable broth/stock – water works great for cooking the pinto beans, but for extra flavor use broth/stock instead.
• Flavor Suggestions (see specific ingredients for each flavor option in the recipe card)
  • Garlic and Herb – made with garlic, fresh thyme, fresh parsley, salt & pepper.
  • Tex-Mex – flavored with garlic, onion, jalapeño and taco seasoning
  • BBQ – mixed with onion, garlic and barbecue sauce 

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Do You Need To Soak Pinto Beans Before Cooking?

It is not necessary to soak dry pinto beans before cooking them in an Instant Pot. They will cook evenly and in just over 30 minutes in a pressure cooker. I don’t ever soak them and they turn out delicious every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Ease. This recipe is pretty much effortless! You’ll just need a couple minutes of hands on time, and very little prep.
• Minimal ingredients. Only two simple ingredients, plus any optional spices and flavorings, are needed.
• Nutritious. Pinto beans are super healthy! According to Healthline, pinto beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients may provide several benefits, including improved blood sugar control and heart health. Pinto beans are also rich in various antioxidants and may help lower your risk of chronic disease.
• Flavor. Pinto beans have a mild, nutty, earthy flavor that works well in a variety of recipes.
• Versatility. Because pinto beans have a mild flavor, you can use them in a ton of different recipes and they will easily take on the flavor of whatever seasonings you’re using.

Ways to Serve Instant Pot Pinto Beans

Here are some of the many ways you can serve and use leftover pinto beans to make meals:

• Use them along with other favorite ingredients to make plant-based pinto bean tacos
• Spoon the beans over steamed rice or cilantro lime rice 
• Add beans to bulk up a soup or chili
• Replace the black beans in this vegan taco salad
• Add to a wrap, quesadilla, or tostada
• Replace the refried beans with pinto beans in this vegan seven layer dip.
• Make bean and cheese burritos

Storing Cooked Pinto Beans:

• To refrigerate – Leftover pinto beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• To freeze – You can freeze cooked pinto beans! After they’ve completely cooled, place them in a freezer safe bag or container and freeze for up to about 3 months.

As usual, PLEASE let me know if you make this Pressure Cooker Pinto Beans recipe and how you like it! You can come back here and leave a comment or tag me on instagram (@foodwithfeeling).

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