Pizza Quesadillas combine the best of both worlds, bringing together the crispy, cheesy goodness of a quesadilla with the savory flavors of a classic pizza. These easy-to-make quesadillas are filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and tangy pizza sauce, all wrapped in perfectly toasted tortillas. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these Pizza Quesadillas are sure to hit the spot. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.
INGREDIENTS
- Flour Tortillas: 12 fajita-sized. The base of the quesadilla, providing a crispy and golden exterior when toasted.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups. The main cheese component, offering a stretchy, gooey texture that’s perfect for quesadillas.
- Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup. Adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese.
- Pizza Sauce: 3 cups (divided). Provides a tangy, rich tomato flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- Optional Parsley: For garnish. Adds a fresh, herbal note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
- Begin by preheating a skillet or griddle to medium-high heat. This ensures that the tortillas will toast evenly, becoming crispy and golden brown.
- Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
- Spray the cooking surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place one tortilla on the heated surface, making sure it lays flat and begins to warm up.
- Step 3: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tortilla. Allow the cheese to melt, creating a gooey base that will hold the other ingredients in place.
- Step 4: Add Pepperoni and Sauce
- Once the cheese has melted, layer the tortilla with sliced pepperoni. Spoon ¼ cup of pizza sauce over the pepperoni, spreading it evenly. This adds the classic pizza flavors to the quesadilla.
- Step 5: Top with a Second Tortilla
- Sprinkle another layer of cheese over the pepperoni and sauce, then place a second tortilla on top. Press down gently to ensure everything sticks together. Once the bottom tortilla is crispy and golden, flip the quesadilla carefully using a spatula.
- Step 6: Cook the Other Side
- Cook the opposite side of the quesadilla until it is also golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be fully melted, and the tortillas should hold together nicely.
- Step 7: Serve
- Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Use a pizza slicer or knife to cut it into slices. Serve the quesadilla with the remaining pizza sauce for dipping, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Pizza Quesadillas are best served hot and fresh, right off the skillet. The cheese is gooey, and the tortillas are perfectly crispy, making them an irresistible snack or meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the quesadilla slices in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or use a toaster oven to restore their crispiness.
- These quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer. You can also customize them by adding your favorite pizza toppings like sliced olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat tortillas and turkey pepperoni. You can also add a handful of spinach or other greens for an extra boost of nutrition.
Helpful Notes
- To ensure even cooking and prevent the cheese from spilling out, press down gently on the quesadilla with a spatula while it’s cooking. This helps everything stick together.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, you can bake the quesadillas in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes instead of using a skillet. Just be sure to flip them halfway through baking.
- For a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the pepperoni before adding the top layer of cheese.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay recommends using a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Chef Rachael Ray suggests using a panini press instead of a skillet for an extra crispy and evenly cooked quesadilla.
- Chef Guy Fieri advises brushing the tortillas with a bit of olive oil before cooking to enhance their flavor and achieve a golden-brown finish.