This Southwest Breakfast Quesadilla is a fun and delicious way to start your day! Filled with eggs, cheese, and spicy peppers, it will definitely wake up your taste buds.
Honestly, who can resist that melted cheese and crunchy tortilla? I love making extra to share at brunch. Everyone knows the best meals are those that are cheesy and easy to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The stars of the show! Use large eggs for fluffy texture. If you’re vegan, try scrambled tofu or chickpea flour mixture instead for a plant-based option.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here for its meltability, but you can use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. Dairy-free cheese is a great substitute for a vegan option.
Black Beans: They’re packed with protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans work well as alternatives.
Sausage/Chorizo: Ground sausage brings a delicious savory note. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works, or skip it for a vegetarian dish. Make sure your plant-based sausage is well-seasoned!
Bell Peppers: Green and red peppers add color and crunch. You can also use yellow or orange peppers or even some jalapeños if you like heat!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Quesadilla?
Getting that crispy tortilla while keeping the filling oozy and delicious can be tricky, but here are some easy steps:
- Use medium heat—this helps the cheese melt without burning the tortilla.
- Preheat your skillet and make sure to use enough oil to coat the pan. This creates a great crispy texture.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Let the first side crisp up well before carefully turning it over.
- Let it rest for a minute after cooking. This helps the cheese set slightly so the filling won’t ooze out when you slice it!
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, crispy quesadillas every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make a Tasty Southwest Breakfast Quesadilla
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quesadilla Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cooked ground sausage or chorizo
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
For the Quesadilla Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southwest Breakfast Quesadilla will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. Prepare to spend about 10 minutes cooking and 10 minutes assembling and grilling. It’s quick enough for a busy morning yet satisfying enough for a leisurely brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Eggs:
In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This will give your quesadilla a fluffy texture!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add in the diced green and red bell peppers. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften up a bit.
3. Combine the Filling:
Next, stir in the cooked ground sausage or chorizo and the black beans. Mix everything together and cook for 1-2 more minutes, until heated through. This is where your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Pour the whisked eggs into the skillet with the pepper and sausage mixture. Stir gently as they cook, until the eggs are scrambled and just set—this usually takes another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove from heat.
5. Assemble the Quesadilla:
In another clean skillet over medium heat, lay one tortilla flat. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface of the tortilla.
6. Add the Filling:
Using half of your scrambled egg mixture, spread it evenly over the cheese layer. Top this with some diced tomatoes and cilantro to add a burst of flavor.
7. The Second Tortilla:
Now sprinkle a little more cheese on top and place a second tortilla over everything to create a quesadilla.
8. Cook the Quesadilla:
Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until it is also golden and the cheese is melted.
9. Slice and Serve:
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute before slicing it into wedges. Repeat this process with the second quesadilla.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the quesadillas hot, garnished with additional diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro. For a kick, add slices of jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Enjoy your flavorful, cheesy Southwest Breakfast Quesadilla!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative that will add a nutty flavor and boost the fiber content. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold all your delicious fillings!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground sausage or chorizo and use additional beans or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through or heat in the microwave for a quick meal.
What Other Fillings Can I Add to My Quesadilla?
The possibilities are endless! Consider adding spinach, avocado, diced onion, or even different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a twist. You can also throw in some cooked potatoes for added heartiness!
