One-Pot Pinto Beans and Rice
If you’re looking for a meal that is hearty, nutritious, and easy to prepare, pinto beans and rice should be at the top of your list. This humble dish has been a staple in kitchens around the world for generations, and for good reason—it’s affordable, packed with protein and fiber, and endlessly versatile.
Pinto beans are full of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and they're creamy and delicious to boot! Try this simple and satisfying one-pot recipe and you'll soon be adding it to your table week after week.
The Magic of Beans and Rice
When pinto beans and rice come together, they create a complete protein—a combination that provides all the essential amino acids your body needs. This makes the dish especially valuable for vegetarians and anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Beyond nutrition, beans and rice are incredibly satisfying. The beans provide creaminess and depth, while the rice adds a soft, comforting texture. Together, they form a meal that is simple yet deeply fulfilling.
One-Pot Simplicity
One of the best things about pinto beans and rice is how easy it is to prepare. With a single pot, you can create a meal that requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor.
Endless Ways to Customize
While the basic version of pinto beans and rice is delicious on its own, it also serves as a blank canvas for creativity. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
🌿 Add fresh herbs like cilantro for a burst of flavor
🌶 Spice it up with chili powder or smoked paprika
🥑 Top with avocado for extra creaminess
🍅 Mix in diced tomatoes for a hint of sweetness
🧀 Sprinkle cheese for a rich finishing touch
No matter how you customize it, the dish remains budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying.
One-Pot Pinto Beans and Rice
This easy beans and rice recipe is a great side dish, burrito filling, or add-meat-to-it base recipe. The potential for customization is endless: use day-old rice and cut down on the liquid, add multiple types of beans, try with chicken or ground beef, top with sour cream and scallions... The hardest part is remembering to soak the beans the night before!
- Author
- Maureen O'Callaghan
- Prep Time
- 10 minutes
- Cook Time
- 45 minutes
- Category
One-Pot
Ingredients
- 2 Tbl cooking oil (we used EVOO)
- 1 small / medium red onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced (follow your heart—we used 25g)
- 1 Tbl tomato paste
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 Tbl dried oregano
- 1 (32oz) carton chicken or veggie stock
- 2lb Clear Creek Pinto Beans, prepared
- 2 cups rice of choice (not instant)
- Toppings/garnishes of choice such as lime, cilantro, tomato, avocado
Directions
- Add oil to a large pot or Dutch oven and turn heat to medium. When the oil is starting to run, add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened and just starting to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Stir regularly so it doesn’t burn or stick.
- Add tomato paste and spices and mix until all incorporated and starting to caramelize, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the stock and bring to a rapid boil. Add the softened beans and (uncooked!) rice. Stir to combine, reduce heat to a simmer (medium low), and cover. Allow to cook for about 20 minutes, until rice is finished.
- Remove from the heat and let sit for 5 minutes, still covered. Mix again and serve! Garnishes optional but encouraged 😁
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