Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in a flash? Look no further! This Pintos and Cheese recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. It’s a delicious blend of hearty pinto beans, melty cheese, and a few simple seasonings, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly healthy. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, offering a quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this homemade cooking delight!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, green onions
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained pinto beans, undrained Rotel, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cheese it Up: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of water or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Pintos and Cheese hot, topped with your favorite additions like sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or green onions. This delicious and easy recipe is perfect served with tortilla chips, rice, or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pintos and Cheese:
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Spice it up: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend all work wonderfully.
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Bean Variety: While pinto beans are traditional, you can substitute with other beans like kidney beans or black beans for a different flavor profile.
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Fresh Ingredients: For a fresher taste, use fresh diced tomatoes and chilies instead of canned Rotel.
Variations:
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Vegetarian Chili: Add a can of corn and some chopped bell peppers for a heartier vegetarian chili.
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Spicy Pintos: Add a diced jalapeño or some chopped serrano peppers for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This simple Pintos and Cheese recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are perfect for busy weeknights, making it an excellent addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!