Copycat Taco Bell Pintos and Cheese with Red Sauce

Copycat
Taco Bell Pintos & Cheese

Enjoy the classic Taco Bell flavor at home with these creamy Copycat Pintos & Cheese, topped with savory red sauce, melted cheese, and fresh green onions. Easy, comforting, and perfect as a Mexican-inspired side dish.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Prep Time

5 Minutes

Ingredients

Prepare the Refried Beans
Start by opening your can of Old El Paso Refried Beans. This specific brand is crucial to achieving that authentic Taco Bell taste and texture.
Place a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the Old El Paso Refried Beans, water, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan. The water helps give the beans their smooth, creamy consistency.
Heat Until Smooth and Creamy
Stir frequently as the beans heat and the cheese begins to melt, about 5–7 minutes.
Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the beans.
Once the beans are hot, smooth, and creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Make the Pintos & Cheese
Spoon the hot refried beans into individual serving bowls.
Spoon Copycat Taco Bell Red Sauce over the beans, allowing the sauce to spread toward the edges.
Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese over the red sauce.
Let the cheese sit for a minute or two so it begins to melt from the heat of the beans.
Serve
Serve the Pintos & Cheese hot as a side dish, with tortilla chips, or alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired meal.
Enjoy!
Serve your homemade Copycat Taco Bell Refried Beans hot, fresh, smooth, and creamy—just like they should be. ❤️

RECIPE TIPS

Tip: For the closest Taco Bell flavor and texture, use Old El Paso Refried Beans. Other brands can be thicker or taste different, so this is one recipe where the brand really does matter. For extra-creamy beans, stir frequently while they heat and don’t let them cook too long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you use Old El Paso Refried Beans?

Old El Paso gives this recipe the flavor and creamy texture that most closely matches Taco Bell Pintos & Cheese.
What red sauce should I use for Taco Bell Pintos & Cheese?

Use our Copycat Taco Bell Red Sauce for the closest Taco Bell-style flavor.
How do I make refried beans smooth and creamy?

Adding water and shredded cheddar cheese while heating the beans helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Can I make Copycat Taco Bell Pintos & Cheese ahead of time?

Yes. Refrigerate the prepared beans in an airtight container and gently reheat them on the stovetop, adding a small splash of water if they become too thick.
What can I serve with Pintos & Cheese?

Serve them with tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salads, or tortilla chips, or enjoy them as an easy Mexican-inspired side dish.