Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese

Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese combine hearty kidney beans with melted cheddar for a nutritious meal. Easily cooked in a skillet, these quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and served with fresh salsa.

10 Jan 2026
Cook time 2 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup kidney beans
1 oz cheddar cheese
1/2 cup salsa sauce
1 tortilla

Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese are a delicious and nutritional twist on the classic quesadilla. This recipe blends the heartiness of kidney beans with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, complemented by the freshness of salsa sauce. It's a perfect meal for a quick lunch or dinner that promises to be both satisfying and flavorsome.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans if they come from a can.
- Shred the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
- Measure out the salsa.

2. Heat the Tortilla:
- Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Warm the tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until it becomes pliable but not crispy.

3. Assemble the Quesadilla:
- Lay the warm tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Evenly distribute the kidney beans over one half of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beans.
- Spoon half of the salsa over the cheese and beans.

4. Cook the Quesadilla:
- Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling and form a half-moon shape.
- Return the skillet to medium heat if you removed it.
- Place the folded tortilla in the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

5. Serve:
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet.
- Cut it into wedges for easy serving.
- Use the remaining salsa as a dipping sauce on the side or spoon it over the top of the quesadilla.

Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese are a simple yet delectable dish that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. The combination of rich flavors and textures makes this recipe a family favorite and an excellent choice for a quick meal. Enjoy your homemade quesadillas hot off the stove, and feel free to get creative by adding your favorite toppings or side dishes.

Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the quesadilla?

Cook the quesadilla for 3-4 minutes on each side after folding it. Ensure the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

How should I store leftover quesadillas?

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

What should I do if my quesadilla is not crispy?

Ensure you're cooking it on medium heat and using enough pressing with the spatula. You can also increase the heat slightly to help crisp the tortilla.

What size tortilla should I use for this recipe?

A standard 8-inch tortilla works well for this recipe. Adjust the ingredient amounts if using a larger or smaller tortilla.

Tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality salsa for the best flavor. You can also make your own by mixing chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapenos.

- Warm the tortilla slightly before assembling the quesadilla to make it more pliable and easier to fold.

- If you prefer a spicier quesadilla, consider adding some chopped fresh jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce to the ingredients.

- Make sure to evenly distribute the kidney beans and cheddar cheese across the tortilla to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

- For a crispier quesadilla, cook it on a slightly higher heat but be careful not to burn the tortilla.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 340kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 6g
Fat 12g

Kidney bean quesadillas with salsa and cheddar cheese