This turkey quesadilla is a tasty and easy meal that packs a punch! Made with lean turkey, cheese, and a crispy tortilla, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
I love how quick it is to whip up—just fill, fold, and cook! Pair it with salsa or guacamole for a fun twist. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, flour tortillas work best for quesadillas. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas are great alternatives, each giving a unique flavor and texture.
Cooked Turkey: Leftover turkey from a roast is perfect here. If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian option work well.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Feel free to switch this up! Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese will melt beautifully too.
Cranberry Sauce: It adds a lovely sweet-tart taste. If it’s not your jam, diced tomatoes or fresh salsa can substitute for a fresher kick.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Golden Quesadilla?
The key to a perfectly golden quesadilla is all in the cooking technique. Here’s how to achieve that crisp, melty goodness:
- Use medium heat; this allows the inside to melt without burning the tortilla.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush the flip! Wait until the first side is golden brown.
- Press down gently with a spatula after flipping to ensure good contact with the skillet.
- Let it rest for a minute before slicing. This helps keep all the fillings inside.
Turkey Quesadilla Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked turkey breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup caramelized onions (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or dried cranberries (adds a sweet tart note)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions (if using):
Begin by caramelizing the onions. In a small pan over medium-low heat, cook the sliced onions with a bit of oil or butter. Stir occasionally until they’re golden and soft, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Set them aside when done.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large skillet and warm it over medium heat. Add the butter or oil to coat the bottom of the skillet and let it heat up while you prepare the quesadilla layers.
3. Assemble the First Layer:
Place one flour tortilla flat in the heated skillet. Sprinkle half of your shredded cheese evenly across the tortilla to create a cheesy base.
4. Add Turkey and Toppings:
Next, add your shredded or chopped turkey, spreading it evenly on top of the cheese. If you’re using caramelized onions, scatter them over the turkey, and then add small dollops of cranberry sauce or sprinkle dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy touch. Top it off with the remaining cheese.
5. Complete with the Second Tortilla:
Now, place the second tortilla on top and press down gently to kind of “sandwich” everything together.
6. Cook the Quesadilla:
Let the quesadilla cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Carefully flip it using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are golden and the cheese is fully melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute. This helps the cheese set a little. Slice it into wedges, serve with a side of sour cream, and sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a nice finishing touch.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy turkey quesadilla with that delightful sweet and savory twist from the cranberry! Perfect for a cozy meal any time of the day.
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this quesadilla. Shred it or chop it up, and it’ll blend beautifully with the cheese and other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have a dairy sensitivity, you can use plant-based cheese or simply skip it altogether. Keep in mind that the quesadilla will be less rich without cheese, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover quesadilla in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes on each side, which helps retain the crispiness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just sauté them briefly before adding to ensure they’re cooked through and add even more flavor to your quesadilla!