If you are used to just heating up refried beans out of a can, give these a try. They are easy to make, and the flavor is well worth the effort.

Easy Refried Beans

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 14 1/2-ounce cans refried beans

salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup mixed Mexican-style shredded cheeses

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft. Add the garlic and continue cooking for 45 seconds more. Add the refried beans and stir with wooden spoon until well combined. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Season with salt and black pepper. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, if desired.

Top the refried beans with the Mexican cheeses. To melt the cheese, cover the skillet with a lid, or place the skillet (oven-proof only) under the oven-broiler for 1 or 2 minutes. Serves 4 to 6.