Description
These Leftover Turkey Quesadillas with Black Beans are a quick, flavorful way to transform cooked turkey into a delicious Mexican-inspired meal. Combining shredded turkey, black beans, and melted cheese inside warm wheat tortillas, these quesadillas offer a perfect balance of protein and fiber, ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings and served with classic sides like sour cream or guacamole, they’re a tasty way to make the most of your leftovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Filling
- 2 cups turkey meat, light or dark, shredded
- 1 tsp taco seasoning or your favorite barbecue dry rub (optional)
- 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
Quesadilla Assembly
- 4 large wheat tortillas (10–12 inches)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterrey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar)
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Filling: In a medium bowl, optionally mix the shredded turkey meat with the taco seasoning or your preferred barbecue dry rub until well coated. This will infuse the meat with extra flavor.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Place one large tortilla flat on a clean surface. On one half of the tortilla, evenly spread 1/2 cup of the shredded turkey mixture, a scant 1/2 cup of the drained and rinsed black beans, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. This layering ensures a balanced taste and melting of the cheese inside.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the fillings and place it in the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, using a large spatula to flip the quesadilla gently to avoid spilling the fillings. Cook until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Repeat and Serve: Repeat the assembly and cooking process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Once cooked, slice each quesadilla into three pieces. Serve warm with optional sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
Notes
- Use your favorite cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce inside before cooking.
- You can substitute wheat tortillas with corn or gluten-free tortillas if preferred.
- Leftover quesadillas can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to retain crispiness.
- Adding fresh cilantro or diced onions inside the quesadilla enhances freshness and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (1 of 4)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg