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Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

Crispy bean and cheese quesadilla with salsa and sour cream on wooden board

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A protein-packed, fast dinner recipe ready in 20 minutes. Creamy beans and melted cheese create a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar blend)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil, for cooking
  • For serving: salsa, sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, gently mash the pinto beans with a fork until roughly mashed but some beans remain whole. Stir in the corn, diced red onion, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Assemble: Lay one tortilla flat. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of cheese evenly over one half. Spread a generous layer of the bean mixture over the cheese, then top with another 1/4 cup of cheese. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon.
  3. Cook: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter or oil. Once hot, place one or two assembled quesadillas in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted. Press down gently with a spatula.
  4. Rest and Serve: Transfer cooked quesadilla to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute before slicing into wedges. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and cilantro.

Notes

Keep finished quesadillas warm in a 200°F oven while cooking the rest. For a crispier result, do not overcrowd the pan. Let quesadilla rest briefly before cutting to prevent cheese from oozing out.

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