Ham And Cheese Quesadillas
Creamy ham and cheese quesadillas feature melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses combined with chopped ham and green chilies, sandwiched between crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, they offer savory flavors with a hint of spice, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses and divide equally between two tortillas.
- Place chopped ham and green chiles over the cheese on each of these tortillas.
- Top with the remaining tortillas to form a sandwich.
- Cook each quesadilla on a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, try adding spices like cumin or paprika to the cheese mix. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you're short on time, pre-cooked deli ham can be used instead of chopping fresh ham. Experiment by adding ingredients like sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra texture and taste, similar to what you'd find in famous Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these quesadillas with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of chili corn for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Ham Tortillas With Picante Mayonnaise for a delicious spread of flavors that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but this may result in a softer tortilla. For best results, re-crisp in a skillet afterward.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Quesadillas contains roughly 563 calories, with 28g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1186mg per serving (52% 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 prepare the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble them without cooking, place parchment paper between each quesadilla, and cover tightly. When ready to serve, simply cook them in the skillet until golden and the cheese is melted.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work well and will still provide a delicious quesadilla experience. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the tortillas.
Can I freeze these quesadillas?
Absolutely! To freeze, fully cook the quesadillas, then let them cool completely. Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen in a preheated oven 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).