This Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole is the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food. Creamy refried beans meet sautéed peppers, jalapeños, garlic, and a splash of tequila—all layered with gooey Cheddar and pepper Jack cheese. It’s a fast, flavor-packed side dish or meatless main that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole
- Fiesta-Worthy Flavor: Chili powder, jalapeños, and garlic give it a spicy, smoky kick.
- So Satisfying: Thick layers of melty cheese and beans make this a hearty hit.
- Quick and Easy: Pantry staples, minimal chopping, and no-fuss layering.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead and baked fresh or frozen for later.
Ingredients
- Butter (for greasing and frying)
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup tequila
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 jalapeños, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Three 16-oz cans refried beans
- 2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups grated pepper Jack cheese
How to Make Pioneer Woman Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Prep the Oven and Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add bell peppers and onion. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Deglaze with Tequila: Remove pan from heat, pour in tequila. Return to heat and simmer until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Season: Stir in garlic, jalapeños, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Beans: Stir in refried beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half the bean mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the Cheddar and pepper Jack. Repeat with remaining beans and cheese.
Expert Tips
- For milder spice, remove jalapeño seeds and membranes.
- Don’t skip the tequila—it deepens the flavor, but the alcohol cooks off.
- Want extra crunch? Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking.
- Add cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor twist.
Recipe Variations
- Loaded Version: Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado after baking.
- Meaty Mix: Stir in cooked ground beef or chorizo with the beans.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and refried beans without lard.
- Tex-Mex Skillet: Bake in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look and crispy edges.
Storage Instructions
In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- How do I keep the casserole from being greasy?
Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount slightly. Avoid adding fatty meats unless drained. - How do I make it crispier on top?
Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs over the top before baking. - Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - How do I control the spice level?
Adjust jalapeños and chili powder to taste. Remove seeds for less heat, or add more for bold spice.
More Pioneer Woman Recipe:
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
- Calories: 1116
- Total Fat: 84 g
- Saturated Fat: 51 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Dietary Fiber: 10 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg
- Sodium: 1423 mg
Pioneer Woman Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole
Description
This Pioneer Woman Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole recipe is made with butter, red bell peppers, onion, tequila, chili powder, garlic, jalapenos, salt, pepper, refried beans, Cheddar, and pepper Jack cheese. It takes 55 minutes and serves 8.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onion; sauté until soft (about 4 minutes).
- Remove from heat, add tequila, return to heat, and cook until evaporated.
- Stir in garlic, jalapeños, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add refried beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
- Layer half the bean mixture in the dish, top with half the cheese. Repeat with remaining beans and cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
Notes
- For milder spice, remove jalapeño seeds and membranes.
Don’t skip the tequila—it deepens the flavor, but the alcohol cooks off.
Want extra crunch? Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking.
Add cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor twist.
Pioneer Woman Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole
