Save A quick, comforting classic featuring creamy beans, melted cheese, and crispy golden tortillas & perfect for a speedy lunch or snack.
I often turn to these bean & cheese quesadillas when I need something delicious and filling at a moment's notice. They're always a hit in our home, especially when everyone's hungry and short on time.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: 8 medium
- Canned beans: 1½ cups (black or pinto), drained and rinsed
- Shredded cheese: 2 cups (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Butter or neutral oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salsa: To serve, optional
- Sour cream: To serve, optional
- Sliced avocado or guacamole: To serve, optional
- Chopped cilantro: To serve, optional
Instructions
- Mash the beans:
- In a bowl, lightly mash the beans with a fork for easier spreading (optional).
- Heat the skillet:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Add fillings:
- Put a tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese over half, then add about 3 tablespoons of beans.
- Fold the tortilla:
- Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
- Cook the quesadilla:
- Cook for 2-3 minutes each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat and serve:
- Repeat with remaining tortillas, beans, and cheese. Slice into wedges and serve hot with toppings.
Save Our family loves making these together: the kids layer the cheese and beans themselves, and everyone picks their favorite toppings for a fun meal night.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a classic touch, or try with chopped cilantro and tomatoes for fresh flavor.
Variations
Add sautéed onions, jalapeños, or tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor, or use whole wheat or corn tortillas for more variety.
Nutrition
Each serving provides about 350 calories, 16 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 15 g protein, so it's satisfying and balanced.
Save These quesadillas are quick to prepare and perfect for sharing & make them your own with your favorite toppings!
Kitchen Help
- → What type of beans work best?
Black beans or pinto beans are ideal; canned varieties rinsed and drained work well for convenience and texture.
- → How can I get the tortillas crispy?
Cook each quesadilla in a buttered or oiled skillet over medium heat, pressing gently to ensure even browning and melting.
- → Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Yes, ingredients like sautéed onions, chopped jalapeños, or diced tomatoes add additional flavor and texture.
- → What are some suitable toppings?
Common accompaniments include salsa, sour cream, sliced avocado or guacamole, and chopped cilantro for freshness.
- → Is there a vegan alternative?
Use plant-based cheese and a neutral oil instead of butter to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing taste.