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Spicy Shrimp Black Bean Quesadillas

These quesadillas pack so much flavor from three different peppers - jalapeño, poblano, and a touch of cayenne. Start by marinating the shrimp with garlic and those peppers while you prep everything else. The bacon adds a smoky base when it cooks with the poblanos. Then pile in your shrimp, black beans, and corn until everything's cooked through. The real magic happens when you melt that pepper jack cheese until it's all gooey, then fold it over the filling. The tortilla gets nice and crispy while the inside stays creamy and cheesy. Makes two big quesadillas that are totally loaded.

Featured in Reliable Dinner Recipes.

Chef Zaho
Updated on Mon, 13 Jan 2025 17:22:51 GMT
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These spicy shrimp quesadillas take the humble Mexican favorite to new heights with succulent marinated shrimp, smoky bacon, and a perfect blend of vegetables and beans. Each bite delivers a harmonious mix of textures and flavors that make this dish feel both comforting and special.

I discovered this recipe during a creative cooking session with leftover shrimp and bacon. The way the cheese melts into all the nooks of the filling, creating pockets of creamy goodness, convinced me that this wasn't just another quesadilla recipe.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Shrimp: Choose medium-sized shrimp (41-50 count) for the perfect bite size. Fresh or thawed frozen both work well
  • Poblano Peppers: Look for dark green, firm peppers with smooth skin. Their mild heat adds depth
  • Black Beans: Canned beans work great, but rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium
  • Tortillas: Large, fresh flour tortillas are key - they should be pliable with no tears
  • Pepper Jack Cheese: Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded and adds an extra kick of heat

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Perfecting the Marinade
Pat shrimp completely dry to better absorb flavors. Mix marinade ingredients thoroughly to coat each shrimp evenly. Let marinate at room temperature to ensure even cooking. Don't exceed 15 minutes to prevent tough texture.
Step 2: Building the Filling Base
Cook bacon slowly to render fat completely. Allow peppers to develop some char for added flavor. Keep ingredients moving to prevent burning. Season each layer as you go.
Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp
Place shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. Don't overcrowd the pan to achieve proper searing. Watch for the color change to pink. Remove promptly to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Assembly Mastery
Heat pan before adding oil for best tortilla crisping. Spread cheese evenly for consistent melting. Don't overfill - leave room for folding. Press gently to seal edges.
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The Art of Quesadilla Making

Through many attempts at perfecting this recipe, I've learned that patience during assembly makes all the difference. Taking time to properly crisp the tortilla while the cheese melts slowly creates that perfect golden-brown exterior we all crave.

Creating the Perfect Balance

The key lies in the harmony between ingredients - spicy shrimp, smoky bacon, sweet corn, and creamy beans all playing their parts while the cheese brings everything together.

My family particularly loves how the roasted corn adds sweet pops of flavor throughout the quesadilla. It's become our secret ingredient, and we often make extra to keep on hand for other dishes.

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After countless versions of this recipe, I'm still amazed by how such simple ingredients can create something so satisfying. Whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, these quesadillas never fail to impress.

Cheesy Spicy Shrimp Quesadillas

Crispy tortillas stuffed with spicy shrimp, black beans, corn, and lots of melted cheese. Three peppers bring the heat.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Fati Zaho

Category: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (2 quesadillas)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Proteins & Dairy

01 20 medium shrimp (41-50 size), peeled and deveined
02 1 slice thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
03 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese

→ Produce & Peppers

04 1/2 jalapeño, thinly sliced
05 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 1/3 cup chopped poblano pepper
07 1/3 cup corn, fresh or thawed

→ Pantry & Basics

08 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
09 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch, burrito size)
10 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 2 teaspoons avocado oil or olive oil

→ Seasonings

12 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
13 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
14 Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Pat shrimp dry, toss with jalapeños, garlic, crushed red pepper, cayenne, olive oil, and salt. Let marinate 15 minutes.

Step 02

Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat 1-2 minutes. Add poblano peppers, cook 2-3 minutes until bacon is halfway done.

Step 03

Add marinated shrimp mixture, cook 2-3 minutes per side. Add beans and corn after flipping shrimp.

Step 04

Heat oil in large nonstick pan over medium-high. Add tortilla, cover with 3/4 cup cheese.

Step 05

Add half shrimp mixture to one side. Cook until cheese melts and tortilla crisps, 3-4 minutes. Fold and press.

Step 06

Cut into pieces. Repeat for second quesadilla. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

  1. Grilled or roasted corn adds extra flavor
  2. Can use any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Mexican blend
  3. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Large nonstick pan
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp)
  • Contains dairy (cheese)
  • Contains gluten (flour tortillas)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 852
  • Total Fat: 52 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 55 g