Quick and Easy Pinto Beans Instant Pot Recipe: No-Soak Method with Bacon and Spices

Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soaking)

Looking for a simple way to make pinto beans instant pot style? This easy recipe for Instant Pot pinto beans requires no soaking! Just pop the beans in your multi-functional pressure cooker and let them cook.

Ingredients for pinto beans instant pot

• 3 slices bacon, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups dry pinto beans, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for pinto beans instant pot

1. Sauté the bacon: Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the diced bacon and cook until it starts to render fat and crisp up, about 5 minutes.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant. This builds rich flavor in every bean.
3. Combine beans and spices: Cancel Sauté mode. Add rinsed pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, bay leaf, and pour in the broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Pressure cook: Secure the lid and cook on High Pressure for 50 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully vent any remaining pressure.
5. Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice, cornbread, or as a protein-packed side to tacos.

Why This Pinto Beans Instant Pot Recipe Works

• No-Soak Convenience: Skip the overnight soak—perfect for last-minute meal prep.
• Depth of Flavor: Bacon, garlic, and spices meld together under pressure for rich, savory beans.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Just set the timer and let your pressure cooker do the work.

Pro Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, mash a few beans against the side of the pot after cooking.
• Swap bacon for smoked ham hock or omit for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.

These pinto beans instant pot-style are a versatile, budget-friendly staple for any kitchen. Whether you need a quick dinner main or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this set-and-forget recipe delivers hearty, protein-packed beans with minimal effort. Enjoy your pinto beans instant pot favorites!

Recipe credits: AllRecipes Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soaking)