Unlock the secret to effortlessly tender and incredibly flavorful dried beans with this ultimate guide to Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soak). This revolutionary recipe eliminates the traditional overnight soaking requirement, leveraging the magic of your pressure cooker to deliver perfectly cooked, seasoned beans in a fraction of the time. Infused with the irresistible savory depth of bacon, each spoonful promises a rich and satisfying experience. Prepare to be amazed at how quickly this wholesome, protein-packed, and fiber-rich dish comes together, offering both comforting appeal and delicious taste for any meal.
Diving into the world of Instant Pot pinto beans with a hint of smoky bacon is not just about convenience; it’s about embracing a rich, robust flavor profile that elevates a simple staple to a culinary delight. Bid farewell to canned beans and the time-consuming process of traditional soaking. Thanks to the pressure cooker, you can achieve wonderfully tender, creamy pinto beans in under an hour, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Whether you serve them as a hearty dip, a robust side dish, or the star of your favorite Tex-Mex creations, this straightforward recipe guarantees maximum taste with minimal fuss, proving that homemade doesn’t have to mean time-consuming.
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Why You Will Love These Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Bacon
This Instant Pot Pinto Beans recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a culinary game-changer that brings together convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor in one simple package. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Unmatched Convenience: Skip the Soak, Savor the Flavor
The Instant Pot truly revolutionizes dried bean preparation. Traditional methods typically demand an overnight soak followed by hours of simmering on the stovetop. With our Instant Pot pinto beans (no soak) recipe, you completely bypass the lengthy presoaking, yet still achieve perfectly tender, creamy beans in a fraction of the time. This means less planning and more spontaneity in your meal prep, allowing you to enjoy wholesome, homemade beans whenever the craving strikes. It’s the ultimate time-saver for busy individuals and families who refuse to compromise on quality or taste. - A Nutritional Powerhouse for Your Plate
Beyond their delicious taste, these pinto beans are a nutritional goldmine. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, making them a fantastic alternative or complement to meat-based meals. Rich in dietary fiber, they support healthy digestion, promote satiety, and help regulate blood sugar levels. Furthermore, pinto beans are packed with vital vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium, all contributing to sustained energy and overall well-being. Incorporating these healthy beans into your diet regularly is an effortless way to boost your nutrient intake without any extra fuss. - Versatility and Deep, Customizable Flavor
What sets this recipe apart is its incredible versatility and the depth of flavor you can achieve. The Instant Pot’s sauté function allows you to build a robust flavor base right from the start. By sautéing ingredients like smoky bacon, aromatic onions, pungent garlic, and a hint of spicy jalapeño before pressure cooking, you infuse the beans with rich, complex notes that develop beautifully during the cooking process. This savory foundation makes these pinto beans perfect for a wide array of dishes, from hearty soups and comforting stews to filling burritos and vibrant salads. Plus, the recipe is easily adaptable, inviting you to experiment with various spices and herbs to tailor the taste precisely to your preferences, ensuring your meals are always exciting and satisfying.
The No-Soak Advantage and the Quick Soak Method
While the Instant Pot truly excels at cooking dried beans without any prior soaking, offering unmatched convenience, some home cooks prefer a quick soak to achieve an even creamier texture and to ensure the beans remain perfectly intact. This isn’t a mandatory step for the Instant Pot, but rather an optional technique that can enhance the final result, particularly if you’re aiming for beans with very smooth, unbroken skins. The beauty is that this quick soak can be done right in your Instant Pot, streamlining the process and saving you extra dishes.
Here’s how to execute a simple, 3-step Instant Pot quick soak method for dried beans in about an hour:
- Step 1: Combine Beans and Water. Begin by adding your sorted and rinsed dried beans to the Instant Pot inner pot. Pour in 6 cups of fresh water, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
- Step 2: Initiate a Rapid Boil. Select the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot and adjust it to the “More” setting (which indicates higher heat). Bring the beans and water to a vigorous boil. This usually takes less than 5 minutes in most Instant Pot models.
- Step 3: Quick Soak & Rest. Once boiling, press “Cancel” to turn off the sauté function. Place the lid loosely on the Instant Pot (or simply use a plate) and allow the beans to rest in the hot water for one hour. This rapid heating and resting process effectively mimics an overnight soak, softening the beans without the long wait. After soaking, drain the beans and proceed with the main recipe instructions. This optional quick soak allows you to achieve beautifully consistent beans with minimal effort and no extra cleanup!
New to Instant Pot Cooking?
If you’re just starting your Instant Pot journey, a great place to begin is by reading my Instant Pot Basics guide. It provides essential information on safely operating your pressure cooker and understanding its core functions. For more in-depth tips and tricks, explore this comprehensive post on how to use your Instant Pot pressure cooker effectively.
Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting delicious Instant Pot pinto beans begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors of this comforting dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or pantry staples:
- Dried Pinto Beans: These legumes are the undeniable foundation of our recipe. Choose fresh, unbroken dried pinto beans for the best results. The beauty of this Instant Pot method is that no prior soaking is necessary, though a quick rinse and sorting to remove any small debris or imperfect beans are always recommended for cleanliness and even cooking.
- Bacon: The crumbled bacon is more than just a garnish; it’s a critical flavor enhancer. As it renders, the bacon fat forms a rich, smoky base that infuses the entire dish. If you’re aiming for a meat-free version, simply omit the bacon and use a tablespoon or two of olive oil for sautéing. For a subtle smoky essence without meat, a generous pinch of smoked paprika can be added along with other spices.
- Yellow Onion: Finely chopped yellow onion cooks down to provide a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth. It creates a foundational layer of flavor that complements the richness of the bacon and spices. White or red onions can be substituted in a pinch, though their flavor profiles might differ slightly.
- Jalapeño Pepper: This pepper introduces a mild, refreshing kick without overwhelming heat. Remember to remove the membranes and seeds for a milder experience; leaving some in will increase the spice level. For a milder option, green chilies (canned or fresh) can be used, or a dash of cayenne pepper for pure heat.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is indispensable for its pungent, aromatic richness. It deepens the savory notes and pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. While fresh is always best, pre-minced garlic from a jar can be used in a 1:1 substitution, though you might lose some of the vibrant garlic punch.
- Spices (Dried Oregano, Chili Powder, Salt, Ground Cumin):
- Dried Oregano: Adds a classic earthy and slightly peppery Mediterranean note, tying the savory flavors together.
- Chili Powder: Contributes a subtle smokiness and a nuanced blend of flavors that are characteristic of Tex-Mex cuisine.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the beans and enhancing all the other flavors. Adjust to taste, especially if using a salty broth or bacon.
- Ground Cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy, and slightly pungent flavor that perfectly balances the smoky and spicy notes, giving the beans their signature character.
- Chicken Broth: This liquid component is key not only for cooking the beans but also for infusing them with rich, savory flavor. Hot broth can also help speed up the pressure building process in the Instant Pot. For a vegetarian or vegan version, readily swap chicken broth for a good quality vegetable broth.
- Water: Used in conjunction with chicken broth, water ensures there is sufficient liquid for the pressure cooking process, allowing the beans to become perfectly tender.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a delightful tang. Lemon juice is a suitable alternative if lime is unavailable.
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of vibrant, herbaceous flavor and a pop of color just before serving. If you plan to freeze the beans, it’s best to omit the cilantro and stir it in after reheating, as freezing can affect its texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations for Every Palate
One of the best aspects of these Instant Pot pinto beans is their adaptability. Feel free to customize them with these exciting variations:
- With Ham Hocks: For an even deeper, more complex smoky flavor, add a smoked ham hock to the Instant Pot along with the beans and cook everything together. The ham hock will render its rich collagen and smoky essence into the beans, creating an incredibly satisfying dish.
- With Salt Pork: Diced salt pork can be used as a flavorful substitute for bacon. Its robust, salty character will impart a distinct, traditional Southern flavor to your beans.
- With Sausage: Elevate the protein and flavor by adding a link or two of your favorite smoked sausage, such as chorizo or kielbasa, sliced or crumbled, to the Instant Pot during the sautéing stage.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Delight: Easily transform this into a vegetarian or vegan pinto beans recipe by omitting the bacon entirely. Instead, begin by sautéing the onions, jalapeños, and garlic in a tablespoon or two of olive oil. Crucially, swap the chicken broth for a flavorful vegetable broth. For added texture and nutrients, consider incorporating extra diced vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, or even corn during the cooking process.
Equipment for Perfect Pinto Beans
To prepare this incredibly easy and delicious Instant Pot Pinto Beans recipe, you’ll only need one key piece of kitchen equipment:
- Instant Pot (or any Electric Pressure Cooker): This is the star of the show, making the “no soak” method possible and significantly reducing cooking time. Any brand or model of electric pressure cooker will work beautifully for this recipe. Ensure your Instant Pot is clean and fully functional before you begin.
Mastering Instant Pot Pinto Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these flavorful Instant Pot pinto beans is a straightforward process, broken down into three simple stages. Follow these steps for tender, perfectly seasoned beans every time:
- Build the Flavor Base: Sauté Aromatic Ingredients
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the chopped bacon to the inner pot and cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is crispy. Carefully remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the flavorful bacon grease in the pot. Next, add the chopped yellow onions, jalapeño pepper (if using), minced garlic, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and ground cumin to the rendered bacon fat. Sauté these aromatics for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This crucial step develops a deep, savory foundation for your beans. - Pressure Cook to Perfection: Transform Dried Beans into Tender Legumes
Add the rinsed and sorted dried pinto beans to the pot with the sautéed ingredients. Immediately pour in the hot chicken broth, using its warmth to deglaze the bottom of the Instant Pot by scraping up any browned bits (this prevents a “Burn” error and adds flavor). Then, add the hot water. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s properly sealed, and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and cook on HIGH pressure. For *non-soaked* dried pinto beans, set the timer for 45 minutes. If you opted for the quick soak method described earlier, reduce the cooking time to 25 minutes. - Finish and Serve: Natural Release for Creaminess, Quick Release for Speed
Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This Natural Pressure Release (NPR) method helps the beans absorb moisture and become extra creamy, preventing split skins. After 10 minutes, carefully perform a Quick Release (QR) by turning the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position until all remaining pressure has been released and the float valve drops. Open the lid away from your face. If the beans appear too watery, you can set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” (lid off) and simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until your desired thickness is achieved. Finally, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lime if desired.
🎯 Pro Tip for Optimal Texture
While the Instant Pot allows you to skip the overnight soak entirely, achieving deliciously tender beans every time, some cooks prefer to implement a quick soak (as detailed above) to encourage a slightly creamier texture and help the beans maintain their shape. For seasoning, always add salt and acidic components like lime juice towards the end of the cooking cycle, as adding them too early can sometimes result in tougher beans.
Creative Serving Suggestions
These Instant Pot pinto beans with bacon are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways, adapting perfectly to any meal or craving. Their rich, smoky flavor makes them wonderfully satisfying on their own, whether served as a robust main course or a flavorful side dish. For a simple yet complete dinner, spoon a generous helping of the beans over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Elevate the experience with a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese or sharp cheddar to highlight their smoky notes, adding a creamy, salty contrast. But don’t stop there!
Transform your meal into an interactive delight by setting up a DIY burrito bowl bar. Offer a variety of toppings like crispy crushed tortilla chips for crunch, thinly sliced jalapeños for an extra kick, creamy diced avocado, vibrant fresh tomatoes, finely chopped red onions, a dollop of zesty salsa, and a cooling spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The beans become the perfect protein-rich base for a customized culinary adventure. You can also easily use these flavorful beans as a hearty filling for tacos or burritos; just mash them slightly and add a dash of extra seasonings like garlic powder and paprika for an even bigger flavor punch. For a classic Southern touch, serve them alongside cornbread and collard greens. Feeling creative? Blend a portion of the cooked beans with a splash of their cooking liquid to create homemade Instant Pot refried beans, perfect for a quick and authentic Mexican side. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Instant Pot pinto beans are a flexible, delicious, and deeply satisfying addition to your table, promising comfort and flavor with every bite.
If you love Bean Recipes, We Have More for You!
Beans are a true dietary hero—a fantastic source of plant-based protein and abundant fiber, making them incredibly filling and satisfying. They’re also an exceptionally budget-friendly way to infuse your diet with essential healthy nutrients. The sheer variety of beans, coupled with the countless ways to cook them, means you’ll never face a dull meal! That’s why we’ve curated an exciting list of bean-centric recipes for you to explore.
Try our light and refreshing Tuscan Bean Salad with Feta for a Mediterranean twist. For a heartier, zestier meal perfect for a cozy evening, our stove top chili recipe is a must-try. And for more Instant Pot magic, don’t miss our creamy pressure cooker white beans and the classic comfort of lima beans in pressure cooker with ham—both incredibly easy and delicious options. If you prefer slow cooking, our rich calico beans slow cooker recipe offers deep, developed flavors. And for a vibrant, crunchy side, our cowboy corn salad is always a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pinto Beans
Absolutely! While the Instant Pot significantly speeds up the process, you can certainly cook dried pinto beans on the stovetop. You will need to either soak the beans overnight or use the quick soak method outlined in this recipe. After soaking, follow the sautéing steps (steps 1-2 in the main recipe, using a large stockpot instead of the Instant Pot). Once your aromatics are cooked and beans added, cover them with broth and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently on the stovetop for 4-5 hours, or until tender, adding more liquid if necessary. Remember that stovetop cooking times can vary depending on the age of your beans.
No, that’s the beauty of using an Instant Pot! One of the primary advantages of pressure cooking dried beans is that you can skip the traditional overnight soaking entirely. The high-pressure environment of the Instant Pot allows the beans to soften and cook thoroughly without this pre-treatment, saving you significant time and effort. Simply rinse and sort your dried pinto beans, then proceed directly with the recipe.
Yes, this recipe is incredibly adaptable for vegan and vegetarian diets. To make it vegan-friendly, simply omit the bacon. Instead of rendering bacon fat, you can start by sautéing the onions, jalapeño, and garlic in 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or another plant-based oil. Additionally, ensure you substitute the chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a touch of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a smoky depth, and incorporating extra vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers during the sautéing stage.
Absolutely! Both smoked ham hocks and salt pork are excellent substitutes for bacon in this recipe, and they will impart a wonderfully rich, deep, and smoky flavor that many find irresistible. If using ham hocks, you’ll typically add a whole hock to the pot with the beans and liquids. For salt pork, dice it and render the fat much like you would with bacon, then proceed with the recipe. Both options will contribute a unique, comforting essence to your pinto beans.
While the Instant Pot successfully cooks dried beans without any soaking, some cooks opt for a quick soak, even within the pressure cooker, for specific textural benefits. The quick soak method, which takes about an hour in the Instant Pot, can help the beans cook more evenly and are more likely to stay whole, resulting in a creamier texture with fewer split skins. While splitting is primarily a cosmetic issue and doesn’t affect taste, the quick soak offers an improved aesthetic and slightly different mouthfeel for those who prefer it. It’s an optional step for refinement, not a necessity for cooking the beans.
Cooked pinto beans are excellent for meal prep and storage. For refrigeration, transfer the cooled beans to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to four days. This prevents them from drying out and maintains their freshness. For longer storage, pinto beans freeze beautifully. Simply portion the cooled beans into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the frozen beans in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. Remember, if you plan to freeze a batch of beans, it’s best to add the fresh lime juice and cilantro after they have been reheated to preserve their vibrant flavor and texture.
More Delicious Instant Pot Recipes To Love…
- Instant Pot Rice Pilaf
- Instant Pot Tortellini Soup
- Instant Pot Italian Pesto Chicken
- Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin
If you tried this Instant Pot pinto beans (no soak) recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback helps other home cooks discover and enjoy these delicious recipes! Thanks for visiting!
Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soak)
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, membranes and seeds removed, finely chopped (optional, for mild heat)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 cups chicken broth, hot (use vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan)
- 3 cups water, hot
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (from about 1/2 lime)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Set your electric pressure cooker (Instant Pot) to the “Sauté” function. Add the chopped bacon to the inner pot and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and its fat has rendered. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside for garnish or to be stirred in later, leaving the flavorful bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the chopped yellow onion, finely chopped jalapeño (if using), minced garlic, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and ground cumin to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Add the rinsed and sorted pinto beans to the pot. Pour in the hot chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Then, add the hot water.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place and the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set it to HIGH pressure for 45 minutes for dried, non-soaked pinto beans. If you performed the optional quick soak method, reduce the cooking time to 25 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. This Natural Pressure Release (NPR) helps the beans tenderize gently. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position for a Quick Release (QR) of any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, open the lid. If you desire a thicker consistency, you can cook the beans on “Sauté” (lid off) for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces to your preferred thickness.
- Stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro (if using) just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with the reserved crispy bacon and any of your favorite garnishes.
Notes
- For a nutritious and cost-effective pantry staple, dried beans are hard to beat. The Instant Pot makes it easy to enjoy tender beans without prior soaking. To ensure the best flavor, season generously during the final stages of cooking, as early salting can sometimes toughen bean skins.
Recipe Variations:
- With Ham Hocks: For a richer, smoky flavor, add a smoked ham hock to the Instant Pot and pressure cook it along with the beans.
- With Salt Pork: Instead of bacon, use diced salt pork for a traditional, savory depth.
- With Sausage: Incorporate a link or two of your favorite sausage (sliced or crumbled) into the Instant Pot for added protein and flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Easily adapt by omitting bacon and using olive oil for sautéing. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based meal. Consider adding extra diced vegetables like carrots or celery for more bulk and nutrients.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions:
- Storage: Cooked pinto beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures they stay fresh and don’t dry out.
- Freezing: For longer preservation, pinto beans can be frozen for up to six months. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Reheating: To reheat frozen beans, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, gently warm them on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave until thoroughly heated.
- Garnish Note for Freezing: If you plan to freeze your pinto beans, do not add the fresh lime juice or cilantro until after they have been reheated, as freezing can diminish their fresh flavor and texture.