Cooking pinto beans typically takes between 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the method and whether the beans are soaked beforehand.
- Soaked beans on the stovetop: After soaking pinto beans for 8 hours or overnight, cooking them on the stove usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. You bring them to a boil, then simmer gently until tender, checking after about an hour and then every 15 minutes until done
- Unsoaked beans on the stovetop: If you skip soaking, cooking time increases to about 1.5 to 2 hours or more, as the beans take longer to soften
- Instant Pot (pressure cooker): Cooking dried, unsoaked pinto beans in an Instant Pot takes about 40-45 minutes on high pressure, with a recommended natural pressure release for best texture
- Slow cooker: Soaked beans take about 4 to 6 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in a slow cooker to become tender
- No-soak method: If you do not soak the beans, expect a longer cooking time on the stove, about 1.5 to 2 hours or more, until the beans are tender and the liquid thickens
In summary, soaking beans reduces cooking time significantly. For soaked pinto beans, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours on the stovetop, or 4-6 hours in a slow cooker. Without soaking, stovetop cooking can take up to 2 hours, while an Instant Pot can reduce this to about 40 minutes under pressure
