Quesadillas are a popular and versatile Mexican dish and you can enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or main course. You can make them by filling a tortilla with cheese and other ingredients and then folding it in half and cooking it until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy. There are countless variations of quesadillas, from chicken and cheese to vegetarian options. One of the most important factors that can make or break a quesadilla is the type of cheese used. With so many cheeses available, it can be difficult to choose the best cheese for quesadillas.
Therefore, in this article, we will explore some of the top choices for cheese. It will make your quesadillas even more delicious and satisfying. Whether you prefer a mild and creamy cheese or a sharp and tangy one. There’s a cheese out there that will take your quesadilla to the next level. So let’s dive in and discover the best cheese for quesadillas!
10 Best Cheese For Quesadillas
Here are 10 great cheese options for quesadillas:
- Oaxaca cheese: This cheese from Mexico has a mild, buttery flavour. It is perfect for quesadillas.
- Monterey Jack: A mild and creamy cheese that melts in a smooth way. Monterey Jack is a popular choice for quesadillas.
- Cheddar: A classic cheese that adds a sharp and tangy flavour to quesadillas. You can use Cheddar in combination with other cheeses for a more complex taste.
- Queso Blanco: This crumbly and mild cheese is perfect for quesadillas. It melts easily and has a subtle flavour that won’t overpower other ingredients.
- Asadero: A semi-soft cheese from Mexico, Asadero melts beautifully. It has a mild, buttery flavour that complements the flavours of the fillings in quesadillas.
- Pepper Jack: A spicy version of Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack adds a kick to quesadillas. It pairs well with bold flavours like chicken or beef.
- Colby: Like cheddar, Colby cheese has a milder flavour and softer texture. It makes a great option for quesadillas.
- Feta: For a Mediterranean twist on quesadillas, try using crumbled feta cheese. Use it with fillings like spinach, olives, and roasted red peppers.
- Gouda: This Dutch cheese adds a smoky and nutty flavour to quesadillas. It pairs well with ingredients like ham or bacon.
- Blue cheese: For a more complex and bold flavour, blue cheese can be crumbled over the top of quesadillas. It adds a tangy and pungent taste that pairs well with meats like steak or chicken.
10 Reasons to Eat Quesadillas
Here are a few reasons to eat quesadillas:
- Quick and easy to make: Firstly, Quesadillas are a simple and quick dish to prepare. It makes them a great option for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Secondly, Quesadillas can be filled with a variety of ingredients. It includes meat, vegetables, and cheese, making them a versatile meal option.
- Delicious: Thirdly, With their mix of melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, quesadillas are a tasty meal.
- Affordable: Fourthly, Quesadillas can be made with inexpensive ingredients. Like beans and rice, making them an affordable meal option.
- Great for leftovers: Quesadillas are a great way to use up leftover ingredients from other meals. Such as cooked chicken or vegetables.
- Kid-friendly: Quesadillas are a hit with kids, who love the cheesy, crispy texture. It can be customized to their tastes.
- Healthy: You can make Quesadillas with healthy ingredients. Like vegetables, whole grain tortillas, and lean protein options.
- Perfect for entertaining: You can make Quesadillas in large batches. Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy entertaining.
- Portable: Quesadillas wrapped in foil or placed in a container. It makes them a great option for on-the-go meals or lunches.
- A taste of Mexico: Lastly, Quesadillas are a popular Mexican dish. It allows you to enjoy the flavours and spices of this vibrant cuisine from the comfort of your own home.
10 Types of Quesadillas
Following are the types of Quesadillas:
- Cheese Quesadilla: The classic and simple version of quesadilla. It is made with melted cheese inside a tortilla.
- Chicken Quesadilla: Filled with seasoned and cooked chicken. Along with cheese, onions, and peppers.
- Steak Quesadilla: Made with thin slices of cooked steak, cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers.
- Vegetable Quesadilla: Filled with a variety of sautéed vegetables. Like onions, peppers and spinach, along with cheese.
- Shrimp Quesadilla: Featuring sautéed shrimp, cheese, and a touch of spicy chipotle sauce.
- Black Bean Quesadilla: Packed with black beans, corn, onions, peppers, and cheese.
- Breakfast Quesadilla: Filled with scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheese. Sometimes topped with salsa or avocado.
- Sweet Quesadilla: A dessert quesadilla with a sweet filling. Such as Nutella, fruit, or caramel sauce.
- Crab Quesadilla: A seafood twist on the classic quesadilla with crab meat, cheese, and spices.
- BBQ Pork Quesadilla: Featuring tender and pulled pork, cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients Required To Make Cheese Quesadillas
- 3 large flour tortillas: The large flour tortillas are soft and flexible, providing a sturdy base for the quesadillas.
- ½ cup Cheese: The grated cheese, whether mild or sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, adds a rich and creamy taste to the dish.
- 2 tsp olive oil: You can use either olive oil or butter to cook the quesadillas, giving them a deliciously crisp and golden exterior.
- 4 Mushrooms: If desired, you can include sliced mushrooms, which add a savoury and earthy flavour to the quesadillas.
- 2 Green onions: Green onions, when sliced and added to the filling, provide a fresh and slightly pungent taste.
- 5-6 olives: Sliced black olives contribute a briny and salty element to the quesadillas, enhancing the overall flavour profile.
- 2 Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes, when diced, bring a juicy and vibrant component to the dish, adding a touch of freshness.
- 1 cup chicken pieces: Chicken pieces, if added, provide a tender and protein-rich option, complementing the other ingredients in the quesadillas.
- 2 Avocados: Avocado slices offer a creamy and buttery texture, as well as a mild and subtly nutty taste.
- 4 Lettuce: Lettuce, when incorporated, adds a crisp and refreshing element to the quesadillas, balancing out the flavours.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet note to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1 tsp salt: Lastly, a sprinkle of kosher salt helps to season the ingredients and bring out their flavours, ensuring a well-balanced taste in every bite.
Tools Required To Make Cheese Quesadilla
Here are the tools you will need to make cheese quesadillas:
- Griddle or skillet: A flat, non-stick griddle or skillet is essential for cooking the quesadillas. You want a surface that heats evenly and allows you to cook both sides of the tortilla.
- Spatula: A spatula will help you flip the quesadilla and prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Cheese grater: If you are shredding your own cheese, you will need a cheese grater to shred the cheese into small, even pieces.
- Cutting board: You can use a cutting board to chop any extra ingredients, such as jalapenos or onions.
- Knife: You will need a sharp knife to cut the quesadilla into slices once it’s cooked.
Best Cheese Quesadilla Recipe
We bring you the ultimate cheese quesadillas that are cheesy, crispy, cheesy and oh-so-delicious! This easy and quick recipe takes only 12 minutes in total which makes them ideal for both adults as well as kids.
Servings: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 7 minutes Total Time: 12 minutes Course: Main Course Cuisine: Mexican Calories: 407 kcal
Cook the tortillas until air pockets appear:
Firstly, on medium-high heat, preheat a sizable skillet. Using a spatula, add a small quantity of oil (½ teaspoon). Spread it all over the bottom of the pan (you could use butter as well).
Next, place one large flour tortilla in the pan. Ten seconds should pass between each time the tortilla flips. The tortilla should start to produce air pockets.
Further, add the cheese and other ingredients:
Take a handful of grated cheese. Sprinkle it on top of the tortilla as air pockets start to form, being careful to avoid getting any cheese on the pan.
Thereafter, include green onions, sliced mushrooms, olives, tomatoes, and other seasonings as desired. Add some chopped cooked chicken to your quesadilla to make it a chicken version.
Because this is a quesadilla and not a quiche, be careful not to put the contents on too thick.
Reduce the heat, then cover the pan:
Cover the pan and lower the heat to low. Now, the skillet ought to be hot to keep enough heat to melt the cheese and brown the tortilla. Remove the quesadilla from the heat if it starts to smoke more.
In addition, check to see if the cheese melts after a minute. If not, put the top back on and wait until the cheese melts, checking every minute.
Fold the tortilla:
Firstly, use a spatula to raise up one side of the quesadilla. Turn over the other side, much like you would when creating an omelette, once the cheese melts.
By now, the tortilla ought to have a light brown colour. If it is not browned, increase the heat to high. Turn the quesadilla over approximately every 10 seconds until it is.
Further, cut the quesadilla into wedges after removing it from the pan.
Slice some iceberg lettuce very thin to form the lettuce that will go with the quesadilla. Salt and apple cider vinegar should add.
Cheese Quesadilla: Nutritional Information
Calorie 407
Total Fat 25 g
Saturated Fat 12 g
Cholesterol 56 mg
Sodium 603 mg
Total Carbohydrate 29 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Protein 17 g
Calcium 420 mg
Iron 2 mg
Potassium 107 mg
Tips To Make The Best Cheese Quesadilla
- Use a high-quality cheese: The cheese is the star of the show in a cheese quesadilla. It’s important to use a high-quality cheese that melts well and has good flavour. Try using a mix of different cheeses, for instance, cheddar, and queso blanco, for a more complex flavour.
- Use a non-stick skillet or griddle: To prevent the tortilla from sticking. Ensure even cooking, use a non-stick skillet or griddle. If your skillet is not non-stick, you can grease it with butter or oil.
- Heat the skillet: To prevent the tortilla from burning or getting too crispy. Heat the skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will allow the tortilla to cook through without getting too dark.
- Use room-temperature tortillas: If your tortillas are cold, they may crack or break when you fold them. Let the tortillas come to room temperature before making them to prevent this.
- Add extra ingredients for flavour: While a simple cheese quesadilla is delicious, you can add extra ingredients. Such as onions, jalapenos, or spices like cumin and paprika. It is to add flavour and texture to your quesadilla.
- Don’t overfill the quesadilla: While it may be tempting to add a lot of filling to your quesadilla, this can cause it to spill out and make a mess. Stick to a moderate amount of filling. Make sure to press down with a spatula to keep everything together.
- Serve immediately: Cheese quesadillas taste good when hot and fresh. Be sure to serve them as soon as they cook. If you need to keep them warm, you can place them in a low oven or wrap them in foil until ready to serve.
Storing & Freezing
Cheese quesadillas can store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, allow the quesadilla to cool down to room temperature. Then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat the quesadilla in the microwave, oven or on a stovetop until warmed through.
If you have leftovers that you don’t think you’ll eat within the next few days, you can also freeze cheese quesadillas for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. When ready to eat, thaw the quesadillas in the refrigerator overnight.
It’s worth noting that the texture of the cheese may change after freezing. The tortilla may become a bit soggy. So, it’s best to freeze them if you don’t plan on eating them within a few days.
FAQs
What Type Of Cheese Is Best For Quesadillas?
The best cheese for quesadillas is one that melts and has good flavour. Oaxaca cheese is a popular choice for quesadillas. Because it is a stringy texture and the ability to melt. Other good options include Monterey Jack, cheddar, and queso blanco. It’s also a good idea to use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavour. The type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal preference. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese until you find the one that works best for you.
What Cheese Do Mexican Restaurants Use For Quesadillas?
The type of cheese used in quesadillas at restaurants can vary. It depends on the region and the establishment. Yet, some common types of cheese that use in Mexican-style quesadillas include:
- Oaxaca Cheese: A soft, mild cheese that melts and has a stringy texture. It helps in quesadillas, as well as in other Mexican dishes. Like chiles rellenos and enchiladas.
- Chihuahua Cheese: A semi-soft, mild cheese that melts in easily and has a buttery flavour. It’s a popular cheese for quesadillas. As well as for chiles rellenos, nachos, and other Mexican dishes.
- Asadero Cheese: A mild, stringy cheese that’s like Oaxaca cheese. It helps in quesadillas, as well as in other Mexican dishes like nachos and tacos.
What Is The Best White Cheese For Quesadilla?
When it comes to choosing the best white cheese for quesadillas, there are a few options to consider. One popular choice is Oaxaca cheese, also known as Quesillo. This soft, mild cheese has a texture that’s like mozzarella. It melts to create a gooey, stretchy filling for your quesadilla. Another option is Asadero cheese. It is a Mexican cheese with a mild flavour and a chewy texture. Like Oaxaca cheese, Asadero cheese melts and is a great choice for quesadillas.
In addition, another popular white cheese for quesadillas is Monterey Jack cheese. It has a creamy texture and a mild, buttery flavour. This cheese is a common ingredient in Tex-Mex-style quesadillas. And it pairs well with ingredients like chicken, beef, and vegetables. Queso Blanco is another option for white cheese in quesadillas. This crumbly, salty cheese doesn’t melt as other cheeses but it often helps as a topping for dishes like tacos and enchiladas. And it can add a delicious tangy flavour to your quesadilla.
What Is The Best Melting Mexican Cheese For Quesadillas?
When it comes to finding the best melting cheese, there are many popular options to choose from. One of the most well-known is Oaxaca cheese, a soft and mild cheese that has a texture like a mozzarella. This cheese is known for its ability to melt fast and create a gooey filling for quesadillas. It often helps in Mexican cuisine, and it’s a great choice if you want a cheese that will melt easily and even.
In addition, another popular Mexican cheese for quesadillas is Chihuahua cheese. It has a mild flavour and a smooth, creamy texture. This cheese melts easily and creates a silky, stringy filling for your quesadilla. It’s famous in Tex-Mex cuisine. And it pairs well with ingredients like chicken, beef, and vegetables.
What Is The Quesadilla Cheese Called?
The cheese used for quesadillas in Mexico, called queso Oaxaca or queso asadero. This cheese is a stretched-curd cheese that is similar in texture to mozzarella. It has a mild, slightly salty flavour and melts easily, making it ideal for quesadillas. In some regions of Mexico, other types of cheese such as queso Chihuahua or queso panela are also useful. On the other hand, in the United States, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese is often used as a substitute.
In Conclusion
Choosing the best cheese for quesadillas is a matter of personal preference. But there are several options that work particularly well. The best cheese for quesadillas should be melty, creamy, and flavourful. This is without overwhelming the other ingredients. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, and queso fresco are all popular choices. Each brings its own unique flavour and texture to the dish. The key to a delicious quesadilla is to experiment with different cheeses. And find the one that suits your taste buds. So, whether you prefer a classic cheese blend or a more exotic option, don’t be afraid. Be creative and try something new in your next quesadilla recipe!
Best Cheese Quesadilla Step-By-Step Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 large flour tortillas
- ½ cup Cheese
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4 Mushrooms
- 2 Green onions
- 5-6 olives
- 2 Tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken pieces
- 2 Avocados
- 4 Lettuce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
Cook the tortillas until air pockets appear:
- Firstly, on medium-high heat, preheat a sizable skillet. Using a spatula, add a small quantity of oil (½ teaspoon). Spread it all over the bottom of the pan (you could use butter as well).
- Next, place one large flour tortilla in the pan. Ten seconds should pass between each time the tortilla flips. The tortilla should start to produce air pockets.
Add the cheese and other ingredients:
- Take a handful of grated cheese. Sprinkle it on top of the tortilla as air pockets start to form, being careful to avoid getting any cheese on the pan.
- Thereafter, include green onions, sliced mushrooms, olives, tomatoes, and other seasonings as desired. Add some chopped cooked chicken to your quesadilla to make it a chicken version. Because this is a quesadilla and not a quiche, be careful not to put the contents on too thick.
Reduce the heat, then cover the pan:
- Cover the pan and lower the heat to low. Now, the skillet ought to be hot to keep enough heat to melt the cheese and brown the tortilla. Remove the quesadilla from the heat if it starts to smoke more.
- In addition, check to see if the cheese melts after a minute. If not, put the top back on and wait until the cheese melts, checking every minute.
Fold the tortilla:
- Firstly, use a spatula to raise up one side of the quesadilla. Turn over the other side, much like you would when creating an omelette, once the cheese melts.
- By now, the tortilla ought to have a light brown colour. If it is not browned, increase the heat to high. Turn the quesadilla over approximately every 10 seconds until it is.
- Further, cut the quesadilla into wedges after removing it from the pan.
- Slice some iceberg lettuce very thin to form the lettuce that will go with the quesadilla. Salt and apple cider vinegar should add.
Notes
- Use a high-quality cheese: The cheese is the star of the show in a cheese quesadilla. It's important to use a high-quality cheese that melts well and has good flavour. Try using a mix of different cheeses, for instance, cheddar, and queso blanco, for a more complex flavour.
- Use a non-stick skillet or griddle: To prevent the tortilla from sticking. Ensure even cooking, use a non-stick skillet or griddle. If your skillet is not non-stick, you can grease it with butter or oil.
- Heat the skillet: To prevent the tortilla from burning or getting too crispy. Heat the skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will allow the tortilla to cook through without getting too dark.
- Use room-temperature tortillas: If your tortillas are cold, they may crack or break when you fold them. Let the tortillas come to room temperature before making them to prevent this.
- Add extra ingredients for flavour: While a simple cheese quesadilla is delicious, you can add extra ingredients. Such as onions, jalapenos, or spices like cumin and paprika. It is to add flavour and texture to your quesadilla.
- Don't overfill the quesadilla: While it may be tempting to add a lot of filling to your quesadilla, this can cause it to spill out and make a mess. Stick to a moderate amount of filling. Make sure to press down with a spatula to keep everything together.
- Serve immediately: Cheese quesadillas taste good when hot and fresh. Be sure to serve them as soon as they cook. If you need to keep them warm, you can place them in a low oven or wrap them in foil until ready to serve.
