Description
These Crispy Pinto Bean Tacos are a quick and delicious vegetarian meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with mashed pinto beans mixed with taco seasoning and salsa, then filled into flour tortillas with melted Monterey Jack cheese, these tacos are pan-fried to golden, crispy perfection. Ready in just 15 minutes, they offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Bean Mixture
- 1 15oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
Assembly
- 2/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 3 teaspoons neutral oil (such as avocado oil or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Prepare Bean Mixture: In a large bowl, mash the drained and rinsed pinto beans together with the taco seasoning and salsa, leaving a chunky texture to ensure the filling holds well but remains hearty.
- Assemble Tacos: Spread approximately 1/4 cup of the bean mixture onto half of each tortilla. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top, then fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shaped taco. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled, making about 5 to 6 tacos.
- Heat Skillet: Add 2 teaspoons of the neutral oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium heat for about 30 seconds. Swirl the oil around to evenly coat the pan’s surface, which prevents sticking and promotes crispiness.
- Cook Tacos in Batches: Place 2 to 3 tacos in the hot skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the tacos and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to crisp up the other side.
- Remove and Continue Cooking: Transfer the cooked tacos to a plate. If needed, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil to the skillet to maintain the non-stick surface and continue cooking the remaining tacos using the same method until all are crispy and heated through.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely.
- Use corn tortillas if you prefer gluten-free tacos, but be gentle when folding to prevent breaking.
- Serve with fresh toppings like diced avocado, cilantro, or sour cream for extra flavor.
