David'S California Quesadillas Or Tortilla Stacks
Cheesy layered quesadilla stacks featuring Monterey and cheddar cheeses, green onions, and salsa, baked in tortillas for a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish suitable for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray two pie pans with Pam spray.
- Place a flour tortilla in each pan.
- Spread a layer of shredded Monterey and cheddar cheese over the tortillas.
- Add a portion of sliced green onions and salsa on top.
- Repeat layering with remaining tortillas, cheese, green onions, and salsa, ending with a cheese layer on top.
- Brush melted butter over the top layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, sliced into wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed peppers between the layers. You can substitute the Monterey cheese with pepper jack for a spicier kick or use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version. Ensure the salsa is well-drained to avoid soggy tortillas. For an even crispier texture, let the quesadillas cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these quesadillas with a side of guacamole or sour cream for dipping. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or Mexican Angel Breaths for a complete meal. For a fun twist, slice them into bite-sized pieces for appetizers at a party. Enjoy with a refreshing drink like horchata or a classic margarita.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of David'S California Quesadillas Or Tortilla Stacks contains roughly 418 calories, with 11g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 make these quesadillas in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. They may need an extra few minutes in the oven if starting cold.
What can I use if I don't have green onions?
If you don't have green onions, you can use finely chopped red or yellow onions as a substitute. For a milder flavor, consider using chives. Just sauté them slightly before layering to soften their taste, ensuring they still blend well with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze assembled but unbaked quesadillas. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until heated through.
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).