This Turkey Quesadilla is a quick and tasty meal. It features soft tortillas filled with juicy turkey, melted cheese, and your favorite veggies. Yum!
I love making these quesadillas for lunch or a snack. They’re super easy to whip up, and you can toss in whatever you like. You’ll be going back for seconds! 🌮😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I love using flour tortillas for their softness and ability to hold fillings without tearing. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas are great substitutes, though they may be slightly firmer.
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast adds lean protein. If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken or even canned beans for a vegetarian version work well. Leftovers from holiday meals are perfect for this too!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives that creamy, melty goodness. A Mexican blend adds extra flavor, but pepper jack cheese can spice it up if you like some heat. For dairy-free options, try vegan cheese shreds!
Vegetables: Red bell peppers and onions add great crunch and flavor. Feel free to swap in other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just ensure they’re chopped finely so they cook through.
How Do I Ensure My Quesadillas Are Cooked Evenly?
Getting quesadillas perfectly cooked is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet. This helps to evenly cook the quesadilla without burning it.
- Use medium heat throughout cooking. Too high can burn the tortillas quickly.
- Keep an eye on timing. 3-4 minutes per side can vary with skillet type, so adjust if needed until golden brown.
- Press down gently with a spatula. This helps the filling meld perfectly together while cooking.
Letting your quesadilla cool slightly before slicing helps it keep its shape and makes it easier to cut. Enjoy your meal!
Turkey Quesadilla
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced onions
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
- Optional: sour cream or salsa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious turkey quesadilla ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. This helps ensure your quesadilla gets crispy and warm throughout.
2. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Then, distribute about 1/2 cup of cooked turkey breast on top of the cheese.
3. Add Vegetables and Flavor:
Next, add slices of red bell pepper and onions. Don’t forget to include a sprinkle of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Finish this layer by sprinkling some chopped cilantro over everything for added flavor.
4. Top It Off:
For a cheesy melt, add a little more shredded cheese on top. Then, place a second tortilla on top to create a sandwich-like structure.
5. Cook the Quesadilla:
Melt about 1/2 tablespoon of butter or oil in the preheated skillet. Carefully place the assembled quesadilla onto the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using a spatula, carefully flip the quesadilla to cook the other side. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s nice and golden and the cheese is fully melted.
7. Slice and Serve:
Remove the cooked quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool for just a minute, then slice it into wedges. Feel free to garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a colorful touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your turkey quesadilla warm with optional sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty creation filled with melty cheese, savory turkey, and delightful cranberries!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for quesadillas. Just make sure it’s shredded or sliced thinly for even cooking and better melting with the cheese.
What If I Don’t Have Dried Cranberries?
No worries! If you don’t have dried cranberries, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like raisins or even fresh diced apples for a sweet crunch. You could also skip them entirely if you prefer!
Can I Make These Quesadillas Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas, which are widely available. This allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dish, regardless of dietary restrictions.
How Should I Store Leftover Quesadilla?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through. Enjoy them warm!