Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas, 8 to 10-inch size
- 1 cup refried beans (can substitute black beans or pinto beans)
- 1/2 cup smashed avocado
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese or Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked vegetables (such as onions, mushrooms, and peppers)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil, olive oil, or melted butter
- Additional shredded cheese (2 to 3 tablespoons per quesadilla, optional, for cooking)
For Serving (Optional)
- Pico de gallo
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
- Guacamole
- Creamy cilantro lime dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the Tortillas: Place the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a layer of refried beans evenly over half of each tortilla, then add a layer of smashed avocado. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle a small handful of shredded cheese over the beans and avocado.
- Add Vegetables and Cilantro: Top the cheese with cooked vegetables, such as sautéed onions, mushrooms, and peppers, followed by a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. Add a little extra shredded cheese on top to help the tortilla stick when folded.
- Fold Quesadillas: Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the filling and gently press to seal the edges.
- Brush with Oil or Butter: Lightly brush the outside of each folded tortilla with avocado oil, olive oil, or melted butter to ensure crispiness when cooking.
- Cook First Side: Heat a non-stick pan, cast iron skillet, or griddle over medium-low heat. Place one quesadilla in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to remove the quesadilla from the pan.
- Cook Second Side with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of shredded cheese directly into the hot pan. Place the uncooked side of the quesadilla on top of the melted cheese and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing a crispy, cheesy crust to form.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it cool for about 2 minutes. Cut into triangles if desired and serve warm with your favorite toppings like pico de gallo, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- You can customize the veggies based on your preferences or seasonal availability; bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms work well.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken, beef, or beans inside the quesadilla.
- Use a non-stick or cast iron skillet to prevent sticking and achieve a perfect golden crust.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure beans and cheese are your main protein sources.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian