Description
These Crispy Pinto Bean Tacos are simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. Creamy mashed pinto beans seasoned with taco spices and salsa are paired with gooey Monterey Jack cheese, all tucked into a golden, crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack, these tacos are ready in just 15 minutes and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
For the Tacos
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 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 the Bean Filling
In a large bowl, mash the pinto beans with taco seasoning and salsa until the mixture is chunky but spreadable. -
Assemble the Tacos
Spread about ¼ cup of the bean mixture onto half of each tortilla. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and fold the tortilla in half to form a taco. Repeat until all tortillas are filled, making about 5-6 tacos. -
Cook the Tacos
Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Swirl the oil to coat the pan evenly.
Place 2-3 tacos in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tacos and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the other side is crispy and the cheese has melted. -
Repeat and Serve
Remove the tacos from the skillet and add an additional teaspoon of oil if needed. Repeat the process with the remaining tacos. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Topping Suggestions: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy salsa for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap: Swap Monterey Jack with cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for different flavors.
- Crispier Tacos: For ultra-crispy tacos, lightly brush the outside of the tortillas with oil before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 240kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg