Ranch Style Beans: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe You’ll Love!
Ranch style beans are a delightful, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Bursting with flavor, these beans are simmered to perfection with zesty spices, bell peppers, and a hint of smoky chipotle for that extra kick. Imagine a bowl of tender beans, lovingly seasoned and served alongside cornbread or as a tasty topping for nachos. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that will have your family asking for seconds. Get ready to savor every delicious bite of this comforting classic!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• It’s a hearty dish that warms your soul.
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of spices.
• Versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish.
• A great way to enjoy plant-based protein without sacrificing taste.
ranch style beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect all ingredients listed above.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the pinto beans and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together.
- Add vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let beans simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Taste the beans and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or sour cream. Enjoy with cornbread or rice!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 40 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | With cornbread or rice |
Ingredients
- Ranch Style Beans – the star of the dish, providing a hearty base.
- Olive Oil – for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.
- Bell Pepper – brings a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- Vegetable Broth – a flavorful liquid to simmer the beans.
- Chili Powder – adds warmth and spice to the dish.
- Cumin – gives an earthy flavor that complements the beans.
- Black Pepper – for a touch of heat and seasoning.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Brown Sugar – balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
- Tomato Sauce – adds moisture and a rich tomato flavor.
- Vegetarian Sausage – a great substitute for traditional meat, adding protein.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious ranch style beans with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 cans of pinto beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 onion (chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Tomatoes
Pour in the pinto beans (drained and rinsed) and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir everything together, letting those flavors mingle!
Step 4: Season It Up
Add the vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows all those tasty flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Give your beans a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your palate.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your ranch style beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if you like. Enjoy this comforting dish with cornbread or over rice!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
• Soak your beans overnight for a creamier texture.
• Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
• Stir in some diced bell peppers for a fresh crunch.
• Let the beans simmer longer for deeper flavors to develop.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
- Pair with cornbread for a classic comfort meal.
- Top with diced avocado and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
- Enjoy as a filling in tacos or burritos for a hearty option.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or veggie skewers for a balanced plate.
- Mix into a salad for added protein and flavor.
- Use as a dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
- Try it over baked potatoes for a satisfying twist.
- Incorporate into chili for an extra layer of taste.
- Serve with a side of pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your ranch style beans fresh:
- Allow beans to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
For long-term storage, follow these steps:
- Cool beans completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space for expansion as they freeze.
- Label with the date and type of dish.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
To enjoy your beans again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What are ranch style beans?
Ranch style beans are a delicious and hearty dish made primarily from pinto beans, often seasoned with spices, tomatoes, and sometimes meat. They are a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine and are perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Can I make ranch style beans vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make ranch style beans vegetarian by omitting any meat and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, you still get a rich flavor without any animal products.
How can I spice up my ranch style beans?
If you want to add some extra flavor, consider incorporating jalapeños, chili powder, or cumin. These spices will give your ranch style beans a nice kick and enhance their overall taste.
Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
Yes, using canned beans is a great time-saver! Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to your recipe to reduce sodium content and improve the flavor.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite comfort food, ranch style beans! This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Just imagine the warm, savory aroma filling your kitchen as you whip it up. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every hearty bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked and ready to share this delightful dish with everyone!
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