Crockpot Refried Beans

Here is a recipe that we like for making refried beans. It is easy because you make it in the crockpot and very YUMMY! Keep in mind that this makes a lot! I have heard that you can freeze the leftovers but I haven't tried it yet.

Crockpot Refried Beans

1 lb. dried pinto beans (rinsed very very well)

1 medium onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

4 T butter or margarine

1 1/2-2 C shredded cheese (your preference)

1 1/2 t salt

pepper to taste

seasoned salt to taste

cumin to taste

1/2 lime, juiced

water

Soak beans in large bowl of water overnight. In the morning drain water and pour beans into a large crockpot. Fill crockpot with clean water to cover the beans and then some. In my large 6qt oval crockpot I cover the beans plus add an additional 3-5 inches of water. Throw in the onion and garlic a sprinkling of seasoned salt and a dash or two or cumin and cook on high for 5-10 hours or until beans are very soft. Drain most (but not all) of the water in a separate container and set it aside. Mash beans with a mixer or potato masher , adding reserved bean water to reach desired consistency. Add butter, salt and pepper and continue mashing until you get the consistency you like. I like it to still have a chunkier, but creamy texture. Keep in mind the mixture will thicken as it stands a little.Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve.