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Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla

Name: Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 15.5 ounces black beans (drained and rinsed); 10 ounces whole kernel corn (drained); 3 roasted red peppers (diced); 2 teaspoons southwestern spice; 2 8 inch tortillas (flour or whole-wheat tortillas); 1 cup shredded cheese (( I used both shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack ))

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Today, I made a simple Air Fryer, Black Bean, and Corn Quesadilla. It was amazing, my kids truly loved it, and it’s super simple to make.

This is one of the best quesadillas I have ever had, and it was truly amazing. If you have never made quesadillas in your air fryer, you are so missing out.

This is a great option for a meatless Monday or vegan option. It is loaded with protein from the beans and cheese. Yesterday, I stopped up on black beans (sale) and wanted to find something amazing to make for the website, and these are my son’s favorite, so I tried them. Oh my gosh! I might be putting some Mexican restaurants out of business; they are so good!

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Mexican Inspired Air Fryer Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER QUESO (MEXICAN CHEESE DIP), AIR FRYER MEXICAN STREET CORN RECIPE, TACO BELL MEXICAN PIZZA RECIPE IN THE AIR FRYER and AIR FRYER, MEXICAN CHICKEN FOIL PACKET.

Black Bean & Corn Quesadillas

They are amazing, and they are so easy to make. With the help of the Air Fryer, the tortillas are perfectly crisped up, and the cheese is all oozing out.

If you love a great Quedailla, you will love these. They are very filling, although there is no meat inside of them. The black beans provide a great and hearty filling, a great option for vegetarians looking for Air Fryer Recipes.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’ll love this recipe for Air Fryer Black Bean & Corn Quesadillas because it combines the convenience of air frying with the delicious flavors of a classic Mexican dish. Here’s why you’ll be a fan:

Crispy Exterior, Creamy Interior: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy and golden exterior for your quesadilla while keeping the filling creamy and flavorful.
Healthier Option: Air frying reduces the need for excessive oil, making these quesadillas a healthier alternative to traditional stovetop or oven-cooked versions.
Speedy Cooking: Air fryers cook quickly, so you can have a satisfying meal in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients. Black beans and corn add protein and a sweet crunch, while you can add cheese, vegetables, or even protein like chicken or beef for variety.
Kid-Friendly: Quesadillas are usually a hit with kids, and the air fryer method ensures they get that appealing crispy texture they love.
Easy Cleanup: Air frying is known for easy cleanup since there’s minimal mess compared to traditional cooking methods.

With its simplicity, speed, and delicious results, this Air Fryer Black Bean & Corn Quesadilla recipe is a crowd-pleaser, satisfying your taste buds and craving for a hassle-free meal. Enjoy the crispy goodness and delightful flavors!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Black Bean And Corn Quesadilla

Get ready for a mouthwatering Tex-Mex delight that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. These Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas perfectly blend convenience and taste. Whether a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack, these quesadillas will hit the spot.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Black Beans (Canned): Canned black beans, drained and rinsed, provide protein and a hearty texture.
Corn Kernels (Frozen or Canned): Sweet corn kernels add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Roasted Red Peppers
Southwestern Spice
Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable tortillas that will hold your quesadilla together.
Shredded Cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheese, typically Mexican blend or cheddar, to melt into gooey perfection.
Salsa: Salsa adds a zesty and tangy kick, and you can choose your preferred level of spiciness.
Cilantro (Optional): Fresh cilantro leaves for freshness and color.
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Lightly coat the quesadillas before air frying to achieve that crispy finish.

These simple ingredients create a delicious and satisfying quesadilla that is perfect for any occasion. Customize them with additional ingredients like sliced jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or cooked chicken for a personalized twist.

How To Make Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas

Making Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas is a breeze, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Start by filling in a large skillet; add the black beans, corn, diced red pepper, and a couple of teaspoons of Southwestern Spice. Then turn the temperature to medium, and saute until slightly softened. Mix well while it cooks, for about 3-5 minutes.

Add about 1/4 cup of filling to the side of the tortilla.

Then add about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top of the filling.

Fold the tortilla. Place the tortillas onto the air fryer tray or basket, and spray with olive oil (this will help them to crisp up)

Set the basket or tray into the air fryer and set the temperature to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 5 minutes; when you have 3 minutes left, flip the quesadillas, spray again with olive oil, and then continue the air frying time.

Recipe Variations

Here are some recipe variations and ideas to customize your Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla:

Meat Options: Add some cooked protein for extra flavor and protein. Grilled chicken, shredded beef, or ground turkey are great choices.
Veggies Galore: Load up your quesadilla with veggies for added nutrition and flavor. Sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach are excellent options.
Spice it Up: Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa. Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or feta for unique flavors.
Avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy and buttery texture.
Dipping Sauces: Serve your quesadilla with dipping sauces like sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy chipotle mayo.
Grilled Quesadilla: If you prefer a grilled texture, you can make these quesadillas on a stovetop griddle or skillet. Cook them on each side until golden brown.
Whole Wheat Tortillas: Opt for whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.
Breakfast Quesadilla: Make a breakfast version by adding scrambled eggs, diced ham, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
Sweet Quesadilla: Create a sweet variation by swapping the salsa for Nutella or fruit preserves, and add banana or strawberries to the filling.

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas are incredibly versatile, making them a go-to option for quick and customizable meals. Enjoy exploring different flavor combinations!

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to make the perfect Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the quesadillas. This helps ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Use Cooking Spray: To achieve that golden, crispy finish, lightly coat the outside of the quesadillas with cooking spray or brush them with a thin layer of oil before air frying.
Don’t Overload: While it’s tempting to stuff the quesadillas with filling, avoid overloading them. Too much filling can cause the quesadillas to burst open during cooking.
Flip Halfway Through: To ensure both sides of the quesadilla are evenly crispy, flip them halfway through the cooking time. Use a spatula to do this carefully.
Experiment with Cheese: Get creative with cheese varieties. Mix different types like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a blend of flavors.
Customize Fillings: Customize the filling to your liking. Add cooked meat, extra veggies, or different spices to suit your taste preferences.
Serve Hot: Quesadillas are best when served hot and fresh from the air fryer. Enjoy them right away for that perfect crunch.
Dipping Sauces: Consider serving your quesadillas with a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for added flavor.
Size Matters: Adjust the size of your quesadillas to fit your air fryer basket. Smaller ones may cook more evenly.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the quesadillas as they cook. Cooking times can vary depending on the air fryer model, so adjust as needed to avoid overcooking.

With these pro tips, you’ll be able to create delicious and perfectly crispy Air Fryer Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas every time. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Faq’s

Can I use different tortilla types? You can use whole wheat, spinach, or flavored tortillas for a unique twist on the classic quesadilla.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy? To prevent soggy quesadillas, drain and rinse the black beans and corn well to remove excess moisture from the canned ingredients. Additionally, lightly oiling or spraying the outside of the quesadillas before air frying helps create a crispy crust.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time? While quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and air fry the quesadillas just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

Can I freeze leftover quesadillas? Yes, you can freeze leftover quesadillas. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then reheat in the air fryer until warmed.

What are some other toppings I can add? Add toppings to your quesadillas, such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeño, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Can I make these quesadillas in a traditional oven? Yes, you can bake quesadillas in a traditional oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover quesadillas? Reheat leftover quesadillas in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until they are heated and crispy again. You can also use a microwave, but the air fryer will maintain its texture better.

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