Baked quesadillas

Baked quesadillas are a quick and delicious meal that captures the bright flavors of Mexican cuisine. They’re versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a simple dish for a gathering with friends, baked quesadillas are a fantastic choice. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to gooey cheese and savory fillings that will delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and discover how to make the perfect baked quesadillas.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 350
  • Protein: 22 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 35 grams
  • Fat: 15 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Sugar: 2 grams
  • Sodium: 450 mg

Why Make This Baked Quesadillas

Baked quesadillas are a wonderful meal option because they are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. They’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Plus, they can accommodate various dietary needs: swap chicken for beans for a vegetarian delight, or customize the fillings with your favorite veggies. With just a few ingredients, you can create something deliciously filling that everyone is sure to love.

How to Make Baked Quesadillas

Ingredients:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or beans for a vegetarian option)
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • Sour cream and salsa for serving

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that the quesadillas bake evenly and get that nice, crispy texture.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (or beans), shredded cheese, bell peppers, onions, and taco seasoning. Mix everything until well combined. This mixture is where all the flavors meld together, creating a filling that’s bursting with taste.

Step 3: Assembly

Place one tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread the filling mixture evenly over half of the tortilla. Then, fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas. You can use a spatula to press them down slightly, ensuring that the filling is secure.

Step 4: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbrowning. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

How to Serve Baked Quesadillas

Serve your baked quesadillas hot with a dollop of sour cream and a side of salsa. These dips enhance the flavors beautifully and add a refreshing contrast to the cheesy filling. You can also serve them alongside guacamole or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Baked Quesadillas

If you have leftovers (although they’re so good you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their crispiness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Quesadillas

  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a bit of spice or a Mexican blend for an extra kick.
  • Veggie Options: Add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a more nutritious option.
  • Crispier Quesadillas: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops of the quesadillas with olive oil before baking.
  • Flavor Boost: Feel free to customize the taco seasoning by adding a bit of cayenne pepper for heat or garlic powder for savory depth.

Delicious Variations

  • Southwestern Quesadillas: Add black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños for a southwestern twist.
  • Breakfast Quesadillas: Swap the chicken for scrambled eggs and add spinach and feta cheese for a delightful breakfast option.
  • BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Mix shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use whole wheat tortillas instead of flour?
    Yes, whole wheat tortillas work great and add a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.
  • Can I freeze baked quesadillas?
    Absolutely! Make them ahead of time, then individually wrap and freeze. Heat them from frozen in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
  • What can I substitute for chicken?
    You can use any shredded meat like turkey or pulled pork, or you can keep it vegetarian with beans, tofu, or sautéed vegetables.
  • How do I ensure my quesadillas don’t get soggy?
    Make sure to drain any excess moisture from vegetables before adding them to the filling. This helps in achieving a crispy quesadilla.
  • Can I stack them before baking?
    It’s best to bake them in a single layer to allow for maximum crispness. Stacking can lead to uneven cooking.

Conclusion

Baked quesadillas are not just easy to make; they are a delightful dish that brings joy to the table. With their crispy outer layer and cheesy interior, they appeal to kids and adults alike. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or experiment with new flavors, there’s no doubt that they will become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy these scrumptious baked quesadillas tonight!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Quesadillas


  • Author: hannah-belssy
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian (with substitution)

Description

Baked quesadillas are a quick and delicious meal featuring gooey cheese and savory fillings, perfect for busy families or gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or beans for a vegetarian option)
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • Sour cream and salsa for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (or beans), shredded cheese, bell peppers, onions, and taco seasoning. Mix everything until well combined.
  3. Place one tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread the filling mixture evenly over half of the tortilla and fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

Notes

For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops of the quesadillas with olive oil before baking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

MORE RECIPES

Hannah Belssy

Pro Chef & Bloger

Hi, I’m Hannah, the enthusiastic home chef behind Taste Quick! I’m convinced that incredible food can be both simple and quick to prepare. At Taste Quick, I share my beloved recipes that unite families at mealtime

NEW RECIPES

Scroll to Top