Substitute for Pinto Beans: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for pinto beans is Kidney Beans at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Kidney Beans
Same amount (1:1)
Kidney Beans works as a substitute for pinto beans in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for pinto beans?
Black Beans
Same amount (1:1)
Black Beans is a workable stand-in for pinto beans. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
Same amount (1:1)
Canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed) works as a substitute for pinto beans in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Pinto bean flour
Use 50%
You can use Pinto bean flour in place of pinto beans when needed. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
What should you know before substituting pinto beans?
Kidney Beans is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to pinto beans in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Use the substitute that gets you closest in texture first, then adjust seasoning after it warms through.
How do you substitute pinto beans in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for pinto beans and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Kidney Beans is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role pinto beans plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for pinto beans depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Kidney Beans (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Black Beans (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Black Beans is a workable stand-in for pinto beans. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting pinto beans, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Pinto Beans?
Kidney Beans is the best place to start for pinto beans. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Pinto Beans?
This page lists 4 substitutes for pinto beans. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.