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Homemade Ranch-Style Beans (Canned Pinto Bean Version)

A homemade version of classic canned ranch-style beans made with pinto beans, tomato sauce, and bold chili-seasoned flavor - perfect for skillet meals, Tex-Mex dishes, or serving alongside cornbread.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, undrained
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 Tbsp chili powder (mild)
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper, adjust to taste
  • Optional: 1–2 drops liquid smoke OR 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Add the pinto beans with their liquid to a medium saucepan.
  2. Stir in tomato sauce and all seasonings.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
  4. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
  5. Lightly mash a few beans with the back of a spoon to thicken slightly.
  6. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Notes

Note: Texture should be loose and saucy — not thick like refried beans and not watery.