Pin It A quick comforting classic featuring creamy beans melted cheese and crispy golden tortillas — perfect for a speedy lunch or snack.
I first made these bean & cheese quesadillas when my family needed a fast but filling lunch. Everyone enjoyed the crispy tortillas and gooey melted cheese — now they're a weekly favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 medium flour tortillas: soft and flexible for folding
- 1½ cups canned beans (black beans or pinto beans): drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar Monterey Jack or a blend): melts well and adds flavor
- 2 tablespoons butter or neutral oil: for crisping the tortillas
- Salsa (optional): for serving
- Sour cream (optional): for serving
- Sliced avocado or guacamole (optional): for serving
- Chopped cilantro (optional): for serving
Instructions
- Mash the Beans (Optional):
- In a bowl lightly mash the beans with a fork for easier spreading.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Add Filling:
- Place a tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese evenly over half the tortilla then add about 3 tablespoons of beans.
- Fold and Cook:
- Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
- Crisp and Melt:
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side pressing gently with a spatula until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Finish:
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas beans and cheese.
- Serve:
- Slice quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Pin It 
Pin It These quesadillas are always a hit at our family's movie night. Everyone gathers around the table to pick their favorite toppings — it's a simple way to make dinner feel special.
Required Tools
Large skillet or griddle spatula mixing bowl (optional) knife
Allergen Information
Contains wheat and dairy. May contain soy. Double-check all ingredient labels if needed for dietary concerns.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 350 calories 16 g fat 36 g carbs 15 g protein
Pin It 
Pin It Enjoy these quesadillas hot off the skillet for the best texture — they're even great for dipping. Perfect for lunch dinner or a late-night snack.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of beans work best?
Black beans or pinto beans are ideal due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, which complement the cheese well.
- → How do I get the tortillas crispy?
Cook each side over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil, pressing gently until golden brown and crisp.
- → Can I customize the cheese blend?
Yes, using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend allows you to adjust flavor and melting quality.
- → What toppings work well with this dish?
Salsa, sour cream, sliced avocado, guacamole, and chopped cilantro add freshness and enhance the overall taste.
- → Is it possible to make this vegan?
Yes, by using plant-based cheese and substitutes for butter or oil, you can create a vegan-friendly version.