Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make snack that will be loved by everyone? This bean and cheese quesadilla is your go-to recipe! It combines the richness of melted cheese, the heartiness of seasoned beans, and the crispiness of perfectly grilled tortillas. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner, or game-day snacks, these quesadillas are ready in just 7 minutes! Customize them with black beans, refried beans, or your favorite toppings like jalapeños, onions, or salsa. Simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly, these black bean and cheese quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite.
Bean and Cheese Quesadilla
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- ½ jalapeño finely chopped (optional)
- ½ cup canned black beans drained and rinsed (or refried beans)
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 4 small flour tortillas
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Prepare the Beans: Add the black beans and taco seasoning to the skillet. Mash the beans slightly with the back of a spatula and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Heat the remaining olive oil on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the pan, add a few tablespoons of the bean mixture on one half, and sprinkle with cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook Until Crispy: Cook the folded tortilla for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled (but uncooked) quesadillas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, 2-3 minutes per side.
How to Serve
- Classic Style: Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
- Kid-Friendly: Add mild cheese and skip the jalapeño for a kid-approved snack.
- Party Platter: Cut into wedges and serve on a platter with various dips for easy sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes—perfect for busy schedules.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples like beans, tortillas, and cheese.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or proteins.
- Kid-Approved: Easy to hold, fun to eat, and mild enough for picky eaters.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for lunch, dinner, snacks, or entertaining guests.
Tips & Variations for the best Bean and Cheese Quesadilla
- Add Veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or corn for added flavor and nutrients.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce, chipotle powder, or fresh jalapeño slices for heat.
- Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, cooked ground beef, or shrimp for a heartier quesadilla.
- Healthier Option: Use whole-wheat tortillas and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
If you loved whipping up the Bean and Cheese Quesadilla, you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into more Mexican-inspired dishes that are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for your next meal plan.
- Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe
This fresh and flavorful salsa combines roasted poblano peppers, sweet corn, jalapeños, and a splash of citrus. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and adds a delightful twist to your quesadillas or any meal! - White Chicken Chili
Cozy up with this creamy and spicy white chicken chili. Made with tender chicken, white beans, and a blend of comforting spices, it’s a one-pot wonder ready in under an hour—ideal for chilly nights. - Mexican Lasagna with Tortillas
Think lasagna but with a Mexican twist! Layers of tortillas, seasoned beef, refried beans, and gooey melted cheese come together for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Excited to try more? These recipes are your next step in crafting vibrant, satisfying meals at home. Which one will you make first? Let us know in the comments!
Did you make this recipe?
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