Charro beans recipe, or Frijoles Charros, are Mexican-style cowboy beans that are rich, smoky, and bursting with flavor. Made with pinto beans, bacon, ham, chorizo, tomatoes, and jalapeños, they’re a perfect side dish for tacos, grilled meats, and burritos.
If you enjoy bold, Tex-Mex flavors, you’ll also love this Chipotle Steak Recipe, which pairs wonderfully with these beans for a hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple steps and basic pantry staples
- Packed with Flavor – Smoky, spicy, and deeply satisfying
- Versatile Side Dish – Goes well with tacos, fajitas, and grilled meats
- Protein-Packed – Great for meal prep or a vegetarian variation
Looking for more Mexican-inspired pairings? Try serving these charro beans with a Shrimp Burrito for a delicious seafood twist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb pinto beans (or 3 cans, drained)
- 5 slices bacon (chopped)
- 1 cup ham (diced)
- ½ lb chorizo (optional)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 jalapeños (chopped, optional)
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp Mexican oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make Charro Beans
1. Prepare the Beans
- If using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight.
- Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the Meat & Aromatics
- In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy.
- Add the ham and chorizo, cooking until browned.
- Stir in onions, garlic, and jalapeños.
3. Simmer the Beans
- Add tomatoes, seasonings, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Want a Mexican-inspired grilled protein to go with these beans? Try this San Antonio Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade for a perfect match!
Variations & Serving Ideas
Customize Your Charro Beans
- Vegetarian Version – Skip the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick – Add chipotle peppers or serrano peppers.
- Smoky Depth – Use smoked paprika or add smoked sausage.
Best Dishes to Serve with Charro Beans
- Tacos & Burritos – Like this Shrimp Burrito.
- Cornbread – Try this Fried Cornbread Recipe.
- Rice & Taco Bowls – A great match for a Taco Bowl.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of broth.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time.
How do I make charro beans thicker?
Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce liquid.
What’s the difference between charro beans and borracho beans?
Borracho beans use beer instead of broth.
Final Thoughts
This charro beans recipe is a must-try for any Mexican food lover. Whether served with grilled meats, tacos, or cornbread, it’s a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Love charro beans? Try pairing them with this San Antonio Grilled Chicken for a bold and smoky combo!
External References
Internal References
Chipotle Steak Recipe – Use this as an internal link when mentioning a spicy Tex-Mex dish that pairs well with charro beans.
Shrimp Burrito Recipe – Ideal for linking when discussing Mexican dishes that complement charro beans.
San Antonio Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade – Link this when suggesting protein options that go well with charro beans.
Fried Cornbread Recipe – Perfect for pairing charro beans with a side of cornbread.
Taco Bowl Recipe – Works well when mentioning meal ideas that include beans and rice.