There’s something truly special about the rich, savory aroma of Charro Beans filling your kitchen—a warm hug in a bowl that beckons family and friends to gather around the table. I first tried these scrumptious beans at a festive gathering, and the delicious medley of flavors has stayed with me ever since. This recipe is a heartwarming tribute to the beloved Tex-Mex tradition, where every bite transports you to a bustling Mexican mercado.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy side dish for taco night or want to impress guests at your next potluck, these pinto beans simmered in a smoky broth are your go-to solution. With options to prepare them on the stove, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot, you can easily fit this recipe into your busy week. Budget-friendly and bursting with flavor—from crispy bacon to zesty jalapeños—Charro Beans are comfort food at its finest. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleasing delight!
Why are Charro Beans a must-try?
Comforting warmth: The rich, hearty broth wraps around soft pinto beans for a cozy meal everyone will love.
Versatile cooking options: Whether you use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or the stove, this recipe adapts to your schedule.
Budget-friendly: Packed with nutrition and flavor, it’s perfect for any budget without sacrificing taste.
Flavor explosion: A delicious mix of bacon, garlic, and tomatoes creates a mouthwatering experience at every bite.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Cultural homage: Celebrate the tradition of Mexican cuisine by incorporating these beloved beans into your meals. Enjoy exploring this delightful recipe!
Charro Beans Ingredients
For the Beans
• Pinto Beans – Essential for texture and protein; choose canned for ease or dried for richer flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Jalapeno Bacon – Enhances smokiness; swap with any bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter version.
• Diced Onion – Provides sweetness; yellow or white onions are best for this dish.
• Garlic (minced) – Boosts flavor; fresh is always better than powdered for this recipe.
For the Mix-Ins
• Diced Tomato – Balances richness with acidity; fresh diced tomatoes shine in summer, while canned work well year-round.
• Chopped Cilantro – Offers freshness and bright flavor; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
• Salsa – Adds complexity; pick a medium heat salsa for that perfect kick.
• Diced Jalapenos – Introduce extra spice; adjust based on your heat preferences.
• Chicken Bouillon Cubes – Intensifies the broth’s flavor; low-sodium versions are great for less salt.
How to Make Charro Beans
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Boil the Beans: In a large pot, combine pinto beans and chicken broth. Bring to a vigorous boil over medium heat, allowing the beans to soak up all the delicious flavors.
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Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook diced jalapeno bacon over medium heat until crispy. Keep the melting fat in the pan; it’ll add wonderful flavor to the beans.
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Mix In the Bacon: Add the cooked bacon, along with the rendered fat, into the boiling beans. This will infuse the dish with that smoky goodness we all love.
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Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions in the reserved bacon grease until they turn soft and translucent. Then, add this aromatic mixture to the pot.
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Add Bouillon: Stir in chicken bouillon cubes into the boiling mixture and let it boil for another 15 minutes. This step intensifies the savory broth.
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Incorporate Flavor Bombs: Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, salsa, and diced jalapeños to the mixture; lower the heat to a simmer.
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Allow to Simmer: Let the beans simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow-cooking step is crucial to deepen the flavors.
Optional: For a richer taste, simmer the Charro Beans for up to 2 hours.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Charro Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pinto beans and combine them with bacon and broth up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. The sautéed onions and garlic can also be prepped ahead and stored separately to maintain their texture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the beans on the stovetop, adding fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes and cilantro right before serving for brightness. With these make ahead options, you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy days!
Charro Beans Variations
Customize your Charro Beans with these fun twists and delightful substitutions to suit your taste!
- Black Bean Swap: Replace pinto beans with black beans for a unique flavor while keeping the heartiness intact.
- Meaty Addition: Stir in diced chorizo or smoked sausage for a robust, meaty enhancement that brings everything together beautifully.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the bacon and use mushrooms sautéed in olive oil for a savory, umami-packed vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add more diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will crave.
- Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Cotija for a creamy, decadent touch that makes every bite a delight.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh oregano or smoked paprika for an aromatic depth that elevates the traditional flavor profile.
- Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist, stir in a can of coconut milk to create a rich and creamy bean dish that surprises the taste buds.
What to Serve with Charro Beans?
There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of rich, savory Charro Beans to create an inviting meal for family and friends.
- Tacos al Pastor: Juicy and flavorful, these tacos complement the beans’ smokiness, making for a delightful contrast.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices creates a hearty backdrop that balances the rich beans beautifully.
- Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, this avocado dip adds a cooling element that perfectly offsets the spiciness of the beans.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Tender, sweet corn enhances the meal’s festive vibe while adding a delightful crunch.
- Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of a well-seasoned steak pair superbly with the savory notes of the beans, creating a satisfying experience.
- Margaritas: A refreshing margarita not only cleanses the palate but amplifies the meal’s Mexican theme for a complete dining experience.
- Churros: For dessert, these crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats are a sweet finale, contrasting with the savory flavors of your main dish.
- Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly sautéed zucchini provides a fresh, crisp element that adds color and texture, brightening up your plate.
Storage Tips for Charro Beans
Fridge: Store leftover Charro Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures they stay fresh and flavorful for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Charro Beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as they freeze.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat your beans on the stovetop or in the microwave. To restore the creamy consistency, add a splash of chicken broth or water during reheating.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Charro Beans out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Expert Tips for Charro Beans
• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving; each ingredient varies in flavor.
• Simmer Longer: The flavors deepen with time, making a longer cooking time—up to 2 hours—ideal for the best Charro Beans experience.
• Thick Consistency: For a heartier dish, mash some of the beans against the pot before serving to create a thicker broth.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality bacon and fresh vegetables can elevate your Charro Beans to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Cast Iron Skillet: When sautéing, use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked onions and bacon.
Charro Beans Recipe FAQs
What type of pinto beans should I use for Charro Beans?
Absolutely! You can use either canned pinto beans for quick prep or soaked dried beans for a richer flavor. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and rinse before cooking to achieve the best texture and taste.
How should I store leftover Charro Beans?
I recommend storing your leftover Charro Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool them down to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid excess moisture.
Can I freeze Charro Beans, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Charro Beans! To do so, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag. Be sure to leave about an inch of space at the top, as the beans will expand as they freeze. You can store them for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my Charro Beans are too salty?
Very! If your Charro Beans turn out too salty, you can balance the flavor by adding diced, unsalted potatoes during the last 30 minutes of simmering. The potatoes will absorb some of the excess salt. Alternatively, adding more water or broth can help dilute the saltiness—just remember to adjust the spices accordingly.
Are Charro Beans safe for pets or those with dietary restrictions?
When it comes to sharing with pets, be cautious! Onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs, so avoid giving them beans that contain these ingredients. For dietary restrictions, you can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth and omitting the jalapeno bacon. Enjoy the flavors while being mindful of allergies or dietary needs!
How do I know when my Charro Beans are done cooking?
Your Charro Beans are done when they’re tender, and the flavors have melded beautifully together! A good marker is to taste a few beans; they should be soft but not mushy. A simmer of at least one hour is essential, but up to two hours will create a richer broth. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking!
Delicious Charro Beans: Comforting Flavor for Every Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine pinto beans and chicken broth. Bring to a vigorous boil over medium heat.
- In a skillet, cook diced jalapeno bacon over medium heat until crispy. Keep the fat in the pan.
- Add the cooked bacon and its fat into the boiling beans.
- Sauté diced onions in the reserved bacon grease until soft, then add to the pot.
- Stir in chicken bouillon cubes and boil for another 15 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, salsa, and diced jalapeños; reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let the beans simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.