A wooden bowl of instant pot pinto beans rests on a light grey wooden table.

Are you looking for a simple and convenient way to cook pinto beans that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Say hello to your Instant Pot! Grab a bag of dried beans, and we’ll show you how to make an affordable, quick, and tasty way to prep this plant-based protein.

Dried pinto beans rest in the bowl of a large wooden spoon atop a layer of more dried pintos.

Why should I cook pinto beans in a pressure cooker?

Cooking pinto beans in an Instant Pot is a game-changer because it saves you significant time. Usually, cooking beans on the stovetop can take hours, but with an Instant Pot, you can have perfectly cooked pinto beans in a fraction of the time. 

How much water do I need for one pound of beans?

The golden rule is to use enough water to cover the beans completely. You’ll want to use 8 cups of water for one pound of dried pinto beans. Remember, it’s better to have too much water than too little, as you can always drain any excess liquid after cooking.

Protip: Add flavor!

Want even more flavorful beans? Try replacing some or all of the cooking liquid with broth.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot pinto beans?

Speed is one of the beauties of cooking pinto beans in an Instant Pot. It typically takes around 25 minutes of cooking time under pressure. Factor in the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and release naturally, and you’re looking at roughly 50 minutes from start to finish.

Close view of perfectly cooked beans in a wooden bowl on a light background.

What’s the best Instant Pot to buy?

There are several Instant Pot models available, each with its unique features. We particularly like the Instant Pot Duo and the Ninja Foodi.

Protip: Do more with less!

Looking to pare down your small appliances? If so, go with the Ninja Foodiโ€”it can do the job of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, air fryer, dehydrator, rice cooker, and steamer! 

What setting do I use on my Instant Pot for beans?

For this recipe, you’ll use the Manual pressure setting on High.

Do I need to presoak the beans?

Nope, and that’s our favorite thing about using the Instant Pot to cook beans. Soaking serves to soften the beans, but the high pressure of the Instant Pot will take care of that softening for you. Say goodbye to overnight soaking!

What do I need to make Instant Pot pinto beans?

To make Instant Pot pinto beans, you’ll need:

  • 1 pound of dried pinto beans
  • 8 cups of water or broth
  • Salt
  • Your trusty Instant Pot
A bowl of pinto beans rests on a grey wooden table surrounded by dried chilies, dried bay leaves, and fresh heads of garlic.

How do I cook beans in my Instant Pot pressure cooker?

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Place the beans, water, and salt in the Instant Pot. Make sure the liquid covers the beans.
  2. Seal and set the Instant Pot to manual, High pressure for 25 minutes.
  3. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the lid and give the beans a good stir.

That’s genuinely it!

Do you release the pressure on Instant Pot beans naturally or with quick-release?

A natural pressure release for 20 minutes will do the trick for these Instant Pot pinto beans!

How should I use my pinto beans?

Some of our favorite ways to use these tasty beans include:

  • Tacos
  • Burrito bowls
  • Soups and stews
  • Salads
  • Refried beans
  • Mixed with rice as a side dish

How long will my pinto beans last?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your cooked pinto beans can last up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for 10-12 months for future use. Just make sure to allow them to cool completely before stashing them in the freezer.

Want more easy Instant Pot recipes like this one?

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A wooden bowl of instant pot pinto beans rests on a light grey wooden table.

Instant Pot Pinto Beans Recipe

Yield: About 6 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Additional Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

These simple Instant Pot Pinto Beans require no soaking and are ready in less than an hour. Cooking beans has never been simpler!

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces dry pinto beans
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in the Instant Pot, ensuring the water completely covers the beans.
  2. Seal and set the Instant Pot for high pressure using the manual setting for 25 minutes.
  3. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before removing the lid and giving the beans a good stir.

Notes

  • There's no need to presoak your beans!
  • You may need to add 2-5 minutes extra cooking time if your beans are over a year old.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 131Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 187mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 6gSugar: 1gProtein: 8g

At Wholefully, we believe that good nutrition is about much more than just the numbers on the nutrition facts panel. Please use the above information as only a small part of what helps you decide what foods are nourishing for you.

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