Quick Vegetarian Quesadilla Recipe for Busy Nights
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Quesadillas
Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re making a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines creamy sweet potatoes with hearty black beans, melted cheese, and warm spices—all packed into a crispy tortilla. These Black Bean and Sweet Potato Quesadillas are a perfect vegetarian meal, bursting with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this dish delivers both comfort and satisfaction.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 medium flour tortillas
- Butter or oil for cooking the quesadillas
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the diced sweet potatoes in a medium pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water and lightly mash the sweet potatoes in the pot, leaving a few chunks for texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Add the mashed sweet potatoes and black beans to the skillet with the onions and spices. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Stir in chopped cilantro if using, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay out the flour tortillas and spoon the sweet potato and black bean mixture onto one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese, then fold the tortillas in half to seal.
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
In a large skillet or griddle, melt a small amount of butter or heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden and crispy and the cheese inside is melted. Work in batches if necessary, keeping cooked quesadillas warm under foil.
Step 6: Serve
Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.
Tip 1: Prep Ahead
🟢 You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge to save time during dinner prep.
Tip 2: Customize the Cheese
🟢 Try mixing cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a fun flavor twist that still melts beautifully.
Tip 3: Add a Crunch
🟢 Add a handful of corn or diced bell peppers to the filling for extra crunch and sweetness.