Go Back
To make Copycat Rubio's Pinto Beans, you need simple yet flavorful pinto beans ingredients. First, select high-quality dried pinto beans. These beans are the star of the dish, so pick ones that look plump and clean. You will need one cup of dried pinto beans, which you should soak overnight.

Copycat Rubio's Pinto Beans

Craving the delicious comfort of Rubio's pinto beans? Try my easy copycat recipe to bring those rich flavors right to your kitchen! With essential ingredients like pinto beans, spices, and fresh produce, I’ll guide you through simple preparation and cooking methods, whether on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup dried pinto beans, rinsed and soaked overnight

4 cups water

1 onion, quartered

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 bay leaf

½ teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare Beans: After soaking the pinto beans overnight, drain and rinse them thoroughly.

    Cooking Beans: In a large pot, combine the beans, water, quartered onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, bay leaf, and chili powder. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

      Season the Beans: Once the beans are cooked and tender, remove the bay leaf and onion quarters. Stir in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust spices as desired, based on your flavor preference.

        Mash for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, you can mash a portion of the beans with the back of a spoon or a potato masher to release some starches.

          Serve: Serve the pinto beans warm, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro.

            Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 2 hrs 10 min | Servings: 4-6

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the beans in a rustic bowl, topped with cilantro, and accompany with fresh tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal experience.