CRISPY CHEDDAR CHEESE QUESADILLA
The crispy cheddar cheese quesadilla is a simple yet satisfying dish that features a warm, golden-brown tortilla filled with gooey melted cheddar. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light meal, snack, or appetiser, offering a crunchy exterior with a cheesy, flavourful centre. Made with just three ingredients, it delivers a comforting, classic taste while maintaining a wholesome approach with whole wheat tortilla. This quesadilla can be customised with various add-ins, such as vegetables, beans, or different cheeses, making it versatile and adaptable to different tastes. It’s a fantastic option for kids and adults alike, whether served as a quick lunch, an after-school snack, or a party appetiser. Pair it with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra burst of flavour. Best of all, it’s ready in under 10 minutes with minimal effort.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack, Lunch, Appetiser, Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mexican, Tex-Mex
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Pan-Fry, 5 Ingredients or Less, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Potluck, Family Reunion, Party, Game Night, Super Bowl, Back-to-School, Tailgating, Cinco de Mayo
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Kid-Friendly, High Fibre, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian
DISH TYPE
Flat Bread, Snack, Sandwich
INGREDIENTS
- 1 small whole-wheat tortilla
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp olive oil (for cooking)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 200-230 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fats: 10g
- Fibre: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Calcium: 15% of daily intake
- Iron: 8% of daily intake
PREPARATION
- Preheat The Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add one teaspoon of olive oil. Swirl to coat the surface evenly.
- Assemble The Quesadilla: Place the tortilla flat on a plate. Evenly spread two tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese over one-half of the tortilla.
- Fold And Cook: Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal. Transfer to the heated pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip And Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the tortilla is crispy.
- Cool And Serve: Remove from the pan, let it cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice into wedges and serve warm.
PREP TIME
2 minutes
COOKING TIME
5-6 minutes
TIPS
- Even Cooking: Press the quesadilla gently with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning and better cheese melt.
- Prevent Overheating: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla before the cheese fully melts.
- Crispier Texture: For extra crunch, lightly brush both sides of the tortilla with olive oil before placing it in the pan.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavour. A side of fresh veggies or a small salad makes it a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Cut into bite-sized triangles and serve with a mild dipping sauce to make it more appealing to children.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or black beans for a more filling meal.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese or omit cheese entirely and fill with mashed avocado.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the tortilla with a low-carb or almond flour wrap.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrients and flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftover quesadilla in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes per side to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortilla soggy.
- Freezing: Assemble the quesadilla without cooking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Cook from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the cooking time.