Hey there, little food explorers! It’s Liliane, and today, I’m bringing you a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your rotation: Parmesan Quesadilla Recipe!
These crispy, cheesy creations are not just fun to eat but packed with flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy. You can even customize them with two delicious variations—one with tender chicken and the other with savory beef.
Whether you’re preparing lunch for your little one or whipping up a quick family meal, these quesadillas are sure to hit the spot!
Recipe 1: Chicken Parmesan Quesadilla
Let’s dive into the first recipe: Chicken Parmesan Quesadilla. It’s the perfect blend of tender, seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas. This recipe is a great way to sneak in some protein and vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Quesadilla:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled or cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 flour tortillas (or whole wheat if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra veggie goodness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of garlic powder and Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken breasts (either grilling or pan-searing works best). Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for added flavor.. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay your tortilla flat, then sprinkle a layer of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on one half. Add the shredded chicken, onions, and bell peppers if you’re using them. Top with a little more cheese to ensure that melty goodness.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the filled tortilla on the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Repeat with the second tortilla.
- Serve: Slice the quesadilla into wedges, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot! For an extra flavor boost, serve with marinara dipping sauce.
Recipe 2: Beef Parmesan Quesadilla
If your little one is more of a beef lover, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a delicious Beef Parmesan Quesadilla. The rich flavor of beef, paired with melted cheese and a crispy tortilla, creates a savory, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any lunchtime adventure.
Ingredients for Beef Parmesan Quesadilla:
- 1 lb ground beef (or lean turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tortillas (choose your favorite size!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika for a bit of kick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly. Add the chopped onion, mushrooms, and seasoning (chili powder, salt, and pepper). Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay out your tortilla and sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over it. Then, add the cooked beef mixture on top. Don’t forget to add a little more cheese for extra melty deliciousness!
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the filled tortilla until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve: Slice the quesadilla into wedges and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a light salad.
Homemade Quesadilla Bread: Soft, Fresh, and Perfect for Stuffing
If you’re looking for a simple, homemade bread to elevate your quesadilla game, this recipe is for you! Freshly baked, soft, and perfect for folding around your delicious fillings, this bread will take your quesadillas to the next level.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup warm water
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour in the olive oil and warm water, mixing until the dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for around 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic..
- Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for 15 minutes, covered with a cloth.
- Roll and Shape: Divide the dough into small portions, then roll each one into a flat, round circle. In a skillet over medium heat, cook each flatbread for 1-2 minutes on each side until it turns golden and puffs up.
- Cool and Use: Allow the flatbreads to cool slightly before using them for your quesadillas.
Pro Tip: These homemade flatbreads are perfect for stuffing with all your favorite quesadilla fillings. The freshness and softness make them even more delicious! Enjoy!
Why Parmesan?
You might be wondering why Parmesan cheese is such a star ingredient in these quesadillas. Well, let me tell you—it’s all about the flavor! Parmesan has a sharp, nutty taste that adds depth and complexity to every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic source of calcium and protein, making it a great addition to any meal. When combined with mozzarella, the result is a rich, cheesy filling that’s irresistible.
Creative Twists: Tips & Variations for Perfect Quesadillas
Customize Your Quesadilla:
- Veggie Lovers: You can add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed quesadilla.
- Spicy Kick: Add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes to spice things up!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to make these quesadillas suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your Parmesan quesadillas with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even some crispy baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They’re also great for meal prepping—just store them in the fridge and heat them up the next day for a quick lunch!
Whether you’re choosing chicken or beef, these Parmesan quesadillas are sure to become a go-to lunch recipe in your kitchen. They’re cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavors that kids (and grown-ups) will love. Plus, you can get creative with your ingredients, making them your own!
Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be stressful. With just a few simple steps, you can turn ordinary tortillas into something extraordinary. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—your little ones will thank you!