Quesadilla

A tortilla folded over melted cheese and crisped on a griddle until golden. It is simple, gooey and endlessly adaptable.

Quesadilla

Empanada flor de Calabaza: nsaum75¡שיחת!‎, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)

Where it comes from

Quesadillas are a Mexican staple, with corn or flour tortillas and fillings that vary by region, such as squash blossoms, mushrooms or stewed meats. They are an everyday snack and quick meal.

Explore the cuisine of Mexico.

Recipe

Make Quesadilla at home

Serves 4Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Oaxaca, Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or sauteed mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sliced peppers (optional)
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil
  • Salsa
  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole

How it's made

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter.
  2. Lay a tortilla in the pan, sprinkle half with cheese and any fillings.
  3. Fold the tortilla over and press gently.
  4. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and the cheese melts.
  5. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream and guacamole.

Variations

  • Squash blossom quesadilla: with flor de calabaza.
  • Mushroom quesadilla: sauteed with onion and epazote.
  • Fried quesadilla: stuffed corn masa pocket, deep-fried.

Cook’s tip: Use a cheese that melts well, such as Oaxaca, for the best pull.

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About this page

Description and method written by Intercontinental Chef. Home-style method; quantities are a starting point, so adjust to taste.

Photo credit
  • Empanada flor de Calabaza: nsaum75¡שיחת!‎, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)