Pizza Quesadillas: A Perfect Fusion of Pizza and Quesadillas

These Pizza Quesadillas are a delightful combination of two favorite comfort foods—pizza and quesadillas. Imagine crispy tortillas filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pepperoni, and tangy pizza sauce. It's the perfect quick meal or snack that will satisfy your pizza cravings with a fun twist. Let’s start by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these tasty quesadillas.

INGREDIENTS

• Flour Tortillas: 12 fajita-sized tortillas, providing the perfect base for these quesadilla-pizza hybrids.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups, adding that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup, offering a savory and slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Pizza Sauce: 3 cups, divided for both filling the quesadillas and serving as a dipping sauce.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and added flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat to get it ready for cooking the quesadillas.

Step 2: Prepare the First Tortilla

1. Spray the cooking surface with a bit of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Place one tortilla on the heated surface, ensuring it lies flat.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Pepperoni

1. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tortilla.
2. Allow the cheese to begin melting, then top with a layer of pepperoni slices.
3. Add ¼ cup of pizza sauce on top of the pepperoni, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Top with Second Tortilla

1. Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top of the pepperoni and sauce.
2. Place a second tortilla over the filling, pressing down gently to help everything stick together.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden Brown

1. Once the bottom tortilla is crispy and golden brown, carefully flip the quesadilla to cook the other side.
2. Cook until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.
2. Use a pizza slicer or knife to cut it into wedges.
3. Serve immediately with the remaining pizza sauce for dipping, and garnish with parsley if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Pizza Quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when the cheese is perfectly melted, and the tortillas are crispy. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun twist on lunch. Pair them with extra pizza sauce for dipping or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.

Helpful Notes

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! You can add your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives, to customize these quesadillas to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños to the filling.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the flour tortillas for your favorite gluten-free tortillas.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Bobby Flay: Recommends using a cast-iron skillet for even heating and a perfectly crispy finish on both sides of the quesadilla.

Chef Giada De Laurentiis: Suggests adding a few fresh basil leaves inside the quesadilla for an aromatic twist that complements the pizza flavors.

Chef Gordon Ramsay: Advises cooking the quesadilla over medium heat rather than high to prevent the tortillas from burning before the cheese has a chance to melt fully.