Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe: Quick & Easy
This post may contain affiliate links (disclosure).
Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas are the perfect quick and easy meal for busy weeknights or a satisfying snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. The combination of creamy refried beans, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Why You’ll Love Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
- Quick and Easy: These quesadillas come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for a speedy lunch or dinner. No need to spend hours in the kitchen when you can have a delicious meal in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: The simple flavors and gooey cheese make these quesadillas a hit with kids. It’s an easy way to get them to enjoy a meal without any fuss.
- Versatile: You can customize these quesadillas by adding your favorite ingredients like sautéed veggies, cooked chicken, or spicy jalapeños. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive ingredients like refried beans and tortillas, this recipe is light on the wallet but big on flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Perfect for vegetarians or those looking to incorporate more meatless meals into their diet. The combination of beans and cheese provides a good source of protein.
Ingredients for Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
- Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping around the delicious filling.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful, providing the main protein source for the quesadillas.
- Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture and rich taste.
- Oil: Helps to achieve that perfect golden-brown and crispy exterior on the tortillas.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
- Frying Pan: Essential for cooking the quesadillas to crispy perfection.
- Spatula: Helps in flipping the quesadillas without spilling the filling.
- Knife: Useful for cutting the quesadillas into smaller pieces for serving.
- Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the quesadillas.
- Measuring Spoons: Handy for measuring the oil accurately.
How to Make Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
- Heat Oil: Pour 1 tablespoon of oil into a frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Spread Beans: Evenly spread refried beans over one-half of each tortilla.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beans on each tortilla.
- Fold Tortillas: Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling.
- Cook Quesadillas: Place the folded tortillas in the frying pan. Cook for 3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the quesadillas and cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the beans are heated.
- Serve: Remove from the pan, cut into smaller pieces if desired, and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- With Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa for an extra kick of flavor. Choose between your favorite salsa like; Cream cheese, sour and cream, and blender method.
- With Guacamole: A side of creamy guacamole complements the quesadillas perfectly.
- With Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream for a cool and tangy contrast.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Try this side salad idea. Apple raisin salad, greek tuna, and fruit salad.
- With Rice and Beans: Serve alongside rice and beans for a heartier dish.
Tips for Success
- Even Spreading: Ensure the refried beans are spread evenly across the tortilla to prevent uneven cooking and distribution of flavors. This helps in achieving a uniform taste in every bite.
- Cheese Selection: Use a good melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for the best results. These cheeses melt smoothly and provide a rich, creamy texture.
- Monitor Heat: Keep an eye on the heat. If the quesadillas are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. This will prevent burning and ensure the cheese melts thoroughly.
- Avoid Overfilling: Don’t overfill the tortillas. Too much filling can make it difficult to flip the quesadillas and may result in a messy cooking process.
- Press Lightly: Use a spatula to press down lightly on the quesadillas while they cook. This helps the cheese melt evenly and binds the quesadilla together, making it easier to flip.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the quesadillas immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor. They taste best when hot and crispy.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add extras like sautéed onions, peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture. These can be added to the bean and cheese mixture before cooking.
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh tortillas work best for this recipe as they are more pliable and less likely to tear during assembly and cooking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the quesadillas to cool slightly before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out and to make handling easier.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Enhance the nutritional value by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. These add a nice crunch and extra flavor to the quesadillas.
- Spicy Kick: If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling. This will give your quesadillas a fiery twist.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to the filling. This adds extra protein and makes the quesadillas more filling.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor profile. Each type of cheese brings its own texture and taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas if you are on a gluten-free diet. There are many great options available that taste just as good as regular tortillas.
- Vegan Quesadillas: Substitute regular cheese with vegan cheese and ensure the refried beans are also vegan-friendly. This makes the recipe suitable for those following a vegan diet.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin and paprika to the beans for an extra layer of flavor. These additions can enhance the overall taste significantly.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas. They add a bit more fiber and nutrients compared to regular flour tortillas.
- Breakfast Quesadillas: Make it a breakfast quesadilla by adding scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage to the filling. It’s a great way to start the day with a nutritious and delicious meal.
- Cheesy Delight: For an extra cheesy experience, add a layer of cheese on the outside of the tortilla before frying. This creates a crispy, cheesy crust that is absolutely irresistible.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the quesadillas. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quesadillas on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Reheating in the Microwave: Place the quesadillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that the tortillas may not be as crispy when reheated this way.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the quesadillas for a few minutes on each side, until heated through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Keep in mind that corn tortillas are smaller and more fragile, so handle them with care during cooking to prevent them from breaking. The flavor will be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.
What type of cheese works best for these quesadillas?
Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work best for these quesadillas. These cheeses melt well and provide a rich, creamy texture that complements the refried beans perfectly. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses to find your favorite.
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This can be a time-saver, especially if you’re preparing them for a party or a busy weeknight meal. Cook them just before serving to ensure they are hot and crispy.
How can I make these quesadillas healthier?
To make these quesadillas healthier, you can use whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cheese. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes can also increase the nutritional value. Additionally, using a small amount of oil or a non-stick spray for frying can reduce the fat content.
Can I use homemade refried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade refried beans can be used instead of canned. They often have a fresher taste and allow you to control the seasoning and ingredients. Simply prepare the beans as you normally would and use them in place of the canned refried beans in the recipe.
What are some good side dishes to serve with these quesadillas?
These quesadillas pair well with a variety of side dishes. Some great options include Mexican rice, black beans, a fresh garden salad, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. These sides add flavor and variety to your meal.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking?
To prevent the filling from spilling out, make sure not to overfill the tortillas and press them lightly with a spatula while cooking. Folding the tortillas properly and ensuring even distribution of the filling also helps keep everything in place.
Can I add meat to these quesadillas?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to the quesadillas for added protein and flavor. Simply mix the cooked meat with the refried beans and cheese before assembling the quesadillas.
How do I make the quesadillas extra crispy?
For extra crispy quesadillas, cook them on medium-high heat and ensure the pan is hot before adding the quesadillas. You can also brush a little oil on the outside of the tortillas before cooking to enhance the crispiness.
Are these quesadillas suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these quesadillas are suitable for a vegetarian diet as they contain no meat products. Just ensure that the refried beans you use are vegetarian-friendly, as some canned refried beans may contain lard or other animal products.
Other Easy Quesadillas Recipes
Air Fryer Cheesy Quesadillas: These crispy and gooey cheese quesadillas are made effortlessly in the air fryer for a quick and delicious snack.
Vegan Hummus Quesadillas {Dairy-Free, No Cheese}: Enjoy these flavorful hummus quesadillas that are vegan and dairy-free, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Simple Cheese Quesadillas Recipe: This simple and quick cheese quesadillas recipe is perfect for a tasty meal that the whole family will love.
Air Fryer Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas: These air fryer chicken quesadillas are packed with juicy chicken and melted cheese, making them a perfect quick dinner option.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: Spice up your meal with these buffalo chicken quesadillas that combine the flavors of tangy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese.
Chicken Quesadillas Dinner with Parisian Salad: Enjoy a delightful dinner with savory chicken quesadillas paired with a fresh and vibrant Grand Parisian salad.
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe: Learn how to make these delicious quesadillas filled with tender turkey and melted cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.
Refried Bean And Cheese Quesadillas
Recipe Video
Ingredients
- 1 pcs flour tortillas
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your favorite
- 1 tbsp oil for fying
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Spread refried beans evenly over one half of each tortilla.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beans on each tortilla.
- Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling.
- Place the assembled quesadillas in the frying pan.
- Cook for 3 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the quesadillas and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side, until the cheese is melted and the beans are heated through.
- Remove from the pan and cut each quesadilla in half, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If the quesadillas start cooking too quickly, lower the heat to medium or medium-low to prevent burning.
- Optional Cutting: You can cut the quesadillas into smaller pieces for easier serving, but this step is optional based on your preference.
Nutrition
See also:
