Baked Quesadilla Squares
Cheesy baked quesadilla squares with green chilies and salsa, offering a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners that fans of cheesy Mexican-inspired cuisine will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish with Pam.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar and Jack cheeses evenly on the bottom of the dish.
- Top with drained diced green chilies.
- In a large bowl, combine milk, buttermilk baking mix, and beaten eggs, then beat until smooth.
- Carefully pour the milk mixture over the chilies and cheese in the baking dish.
- Spread 1/4 cup salsa over the top.
- Bake at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Cool for 10 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve with sour cream, guacamole, and additional salsa.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of regular Jack cheese. If you don’t have buttermilk baking mix, you can substitute it with a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, and salt. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking. For a twist, try adding black beans or corn to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Quesadilla Squares are perfect as a party appetizer or a main dish. Serve them alongside sour cream, guacamole, and additional salsa for dipping. They pair beautifully with Mexican recipes like Tex-Mex Dip(Light) or can be accompanied by a fresh salad for a lighter meal. These squares also make for a great brunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual squares for 1-2 minutes, but the oven gives a better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Quesadilla Squares contains roughly 477 calories, with 15g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (39% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 992mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the Baked Quesadilla Squares?
Yes, you can freeze the squares before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. If frozen after baking, reheat directly from frozen.
What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the green chilies or replace them with diced bell peppers. For a different taste, try using roasted red peppers or even a mix of sautéed onions and peppers. This flexibility allows you to customize the squares to your preference.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! To enhance the dish, consider adding more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These additions will complement the cheese and make it even heartier, aligning perfectly with vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).