Microwave Refried Bean and Cheese Tacos 5-Minute Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Microwave Refried Bean And Cheese Tacos are perfect for you! In just five minutes, you can have warm tortillas filled with savory refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a fun taco night with family and friends. Plus, it’s vegetarian and customizable with your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love Refried Bean And Cheese Tacos

• Quick and Easy: These tacos take just 5 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a quick snack. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated steps.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh salsa creates a burst of flavors in every bite. The soft tortillas and crunchy lettuce add a delightful texture.
• Customizable: You can easily customize these tacos with your favorite toppings. Add some diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream to make them your own.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: These tacos are perfect for vegetarians, packed with protein from the beans and rich, cheesy goodness. Even meat lovers will enjoy them!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these tacos too! They can help with spreading the beans and sprinkling the cheese, making it a fun family activity.

Ingredients For Refried Bean And Cheese Tacos

• Mini Flour Tortillas: Soft and flexible, perfect for wrapping around the fillings. You can also use corn tortillas if you prefer.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, they form the base of the filling and add a great source of protein.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts perfectly over the beans, adding a rich and gooey texture. Use cheddar or a Mexican blend.
• Salsa: Adds a fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor to the tacos. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa.
• Shredded Lettuce: Provides a fresh and crunchy contrast to the warm and soft fillings.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Refried Bean And Cheese Tacos

• Microwave: Essential for heating the tortillas and melting the cheese quickly.
• Microwave-Safe Plate: To place the tortillas on while microwaving.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring out the refried beans, shredded cheese, salsa, and shredded lettuce.
• Taco Holder (Optional): Makes assembling and serving the tacos more convenient.

How To Make Refried Bean And Cheese Tacos

• Prepare Tortillas: Place the mini flour tortillas on a microwave-safe plate.
• Spread Beans: Generously spread refried beans over each tortilla, ensuring an even layer.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beans on each tortilla.
• Microwave: Heat the tortillas in the microwave for 1 minute, or until the beans are hot and the cheese is melted. If needed, microwave in additional 15-second intervals.
• Add Toppings: Remove from the microwave and top each taco with salsa and shredded lettuce.
• Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious tacos!

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Rice and Beans: Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal.
• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with various toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, and jalapeños, so everyone can customize their tacos.
• Fresh Fruit: Pair these tacos with a fresh fruit salad or slices of watermelon for a refreshing contrast.
• Chips and Guacamole: Serve with tortilla chips and homemade guacamole for a perfect appetizer or side.
• Cold Beverage: Enjoy your tacos with a cold drink like iced tea, lemonade, or a refreshing margarita.

Tips For Success

• Even Spreading: Make sure to spread the refried beans evenly on the tortillas. This ensures that every bite has a consistent and delicious flavor.
• Melting Cheese: If your cheese isn’t melting as quickly, try covering the plate with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap the heat.
• Microwave Adjustments: Microwaves can vary in power, so if your tacos aren’t warm enough after 1 minute, continue heating in 15-second intervals until the cheese is fully melted and the beans are hot.
• Toppings Variety: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, or cilantro can add great flavor and texture.
• Serving Fresh: Serve the tacos immediately after preparing them. The warm beans and melted cheese taste best when freshly made.
• Taco Holder: Using a taco holder can make assembling and eating the tacos easier, especially if you’re making a large batch.
• Lettuce Crunch: Add the shredded lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp. If added too early, it can wilt from the heat of the beans and cheese.
• Cheese Types: Experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar and Mexican blend are popular choices, Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you prefer a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

Variations And Substitutions

• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan cheese and refried beans without any animal fat. You can also add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tacos for a spicy twist. You can also use a spicy salsa or pepper jack cheese for more heat.
• Protein Boost: Add some extra protein by including black beans or pinto beans along with the refried beans. Alternatively, you can add cooked, seasoned tofu or tempeh.
• Crunchy Texture: For a crunchier taco, use crispy taco shells instead of soft tortillas. You can also add crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top of the tacos.
• Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb and gluten-free version. Simply spread the refried beans and cheese on large lettuce leaves and fold them like tacos.
• Different Cheese: Try using different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack to change the flavor profile.
• Homemade Refried Beans: If you have time, make your own refried beans from scratch using pinto or black beans. Season them with garlic, cumin, and chili powder for a delicious homemade touch.
• Fresh Salsa: Make a quick and fresh salsa using diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Fresh salsa can elevate the flavors of your tacos.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Add slices of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole to your tacos for a creamy and rich addition. The avocado pairs perfectly with the beans and cheese.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have any leftover Refried Bean and Cheese Tacos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the toppings separate if possible to maintain their freshness.
• Refrigeration: Store the tacos without toppings (lettuce and salsa) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place the refried bean and cheese-filled tortillas in a single layer or separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the bean and cheese-filled tortillas. Wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating from Refrigerator: To reheat refrigerated tacos, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Add fresh toppings after reheating.
• Reheating from Freezer: To reheat frozen tacos, remove the plastic wrap or foil and place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until fully heated. You may need to heat in additional 30-second intervals to ensure they are heated evenly. Add fresh toppings after reheating.
• Oven Reheating: If you prefer, you can reheat the tacos in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the tacos on a baking sheet, and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Add fresh toppings after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option and add a different texture and flavor to the tacos. Make sure to warm them up before spreading the refried beans to make them more pliable.

What type of cheese is best for these tacos?

Cheddar and Mexican blend cheeses are popular choices for these tacos because they melt well and add a rich flavor. You can also experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

How can I make these tacos spicier?

To add some heat to your tacos, you can use spicy salsa, add sliced jalapeños, or sprinkle some hot sauce on top. Pepper jack cheese is also a great option for adding some extra spice. If you like, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the refried beans.

Can I make these tacos vegan?

Yes, to make these tacos vegan, use vegan cheese and refried beans that do not contain any animal fat. You can also add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Make sure to use plant-based toppings like avocado, salsa, and lettuce.

How can I add more protein to these tacos?

To boost the protein content, you can add black beans or pinto beans along with the refried beans. Cooked, seasoned tofu or tempeh are also great protein additions. You can also sprinkle some chia seeds or hemp hearts on top for an extra protein punch.

Can I make the refried beans from scratch?

Yes, making refried beans from scratch is a delicious option. Use pinto or black beans, cook them until soft, and then mash them with a potato masher. Season with garlic, cumin, chili powder, and a bit of salt for added flavor. Cooking your own beans allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the seasonings to your taste. Check out my recipe for homemade refried beans.

What are some additional topping ideas?

You can get creative with the toppings for your tacos. Some great options include diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped onions, cilantro, corn kernels, olives, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Fresh lime juice squeezed over the top can also add a zesty flavor.

How can I keep the lettuce from getting soggy?

To prevent the lettuce from getting soggy, add it to the tacos just before serving. If you’re storing leftovers, keep the lettuce separate and add it fresh when you reheat the tacos. You can also pat the lettuce dry with a paper towel before adding it to remove any excess moisture.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bean and cheese-filled tortillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Add the fresh toppings like salsa and lettuce just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor. This makes it easy to have a quick and delicious meal ready to go.

Other Easy Recipes To Make

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Tomato and Artichoke Heart Salad with Canned Artichokes: Refresh your palate with this artichoke salad featuring tomatoes and canned artichoke hearts, a simple and delicious side dish.

Easy Baked Frozen Cheese Ravioli Recipe: Enjoy a hassle-free and comforting meal with this frozen cheese ravioli bake, perfect for busy weeknights.

See also:

• Spicy Jerk Chicken Tacos Recipe

• Air Fryer Mini Tacos from Frozen

• Oven Baked Tacos with Ground Beef or Turkey Recipe