How to Freeze Whole or Refried Beans

Portion out a large pot of cooked beans and freeze for later use to save time and money. This method of freezing works on both whole and refried beans.

Overhead view of 2 bags for frozen beans.

My favorite way of cooking a pound of dried beans is in the Instant Pot. I have a post on how to cook dried beans in the instant pot here. I used Mayocoba or Peruvian beans, however the same instructions can be used for Pinto or Black beans.

How to Freeze Whole Cooked Beans

Cooking 1 pound of dried beans, will result in about 6 cups of cooked beans. For my family of 4 we typically eat 2 cups per a meal, or 1/2 cup per a person.

Cooked Peruvian beans in a small yellow bowl with cilantro on the side.

Once the beans have slightly cooled, use a measuring cup to portion out the beans based on what you need per a serving. Then place them in a freezer safe bag with the date and contents written on the bag.

Remove all the air from the bag and seal well. I like to place the bag in a glass dish to lay flat, then place in the freezer. Once frozen, you can remove the bag of beans from the dish and store in the freezer up to 3 months.

How to Freeze Refried Beans

I know I’m using the term ‘refried’ beans, but technically these are just blended or pulsed beans.

Similar to the whole beans, allow them to cool slightly before storing. Portion out the beans with a measuring cup, I did 2 cups again. Also, make sure there is some cooking liquid with the beans.

Refried Peruvian beans in a small yellow bowl with tortilla chips on the side.

Add to a blender or food chopper and pulse until your desired consistency is reached. Then place them in a freezer safe bag with the date and contents written on the bag.