This turkey quesadilla is a tasty and simple dish to whip up! With soft tortillas, melted cheese, and seasoned turkey, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Great for lunch or a quick dinner, I love to serve mine with a side of salsa for extra flavor. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can enjoy it in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I recommend using flour tortillas for their soft texture. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas are a fantastic option. Just keep in mind corn tortillas are a bit more delicate.
Turkey: Leftover turkey works great here, especially after holidays! If you’re vegetarian, black beans or sautéed mushrooms can be used for a hearty substitute.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, raisins or chopped apples can be used as substitutes, adding a different sweet note.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella create a lovely blend of flavor and creaminess. You can also use pepper jack for a little kick or Swiss for a milder taste.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is a simple technique that can elevate your turkey quesadilla. You want to cook them slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the onions thinly and heat your skillet on medium-low.
- Add a bit of oil or butter, then toss in the onions.
- Keep stirring every few minutes to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown. Patience is key here for the best flavor!
Using these techniques and ingredients will help you whip up delicious turkey quesadillas. Enjoy your cooking!
Turkey Quesadilla with Cranberry and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions (thinly sliced onions cooked slowly until golden)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped (optional, adds a sweet tartness)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Cranberry sauce or additional dried cranberries (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes to make this delicious quesadilla!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally. Allow them to turn golden brown and sweet, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool a little.
2. Assemble the Quesadilla:
On a clean surface, lay one tortilla flat. Spread a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly across the tortilla. Then, add a quarter of the cooked turkey on top of the cheese layer, followed by a sprinkle of the caramelized onions and the chopped dried cranberries, if using. Top with a little more cheese to help everything stick together.
3. Cook the Quesadilla:
Place another tortilla on top to cover the filling. In a non-stick skillet, heat a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat. Carefully transfer the quesadilla to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese is starting to melt.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using a spatula, carefully flip the quesadilla over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s golden and the cheese is fully melted. Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before cutting it into wedges.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish the quesadilla with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with sour cream and cranberry sauce or dried cranberries on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful and cozy turkey quesadilla!
Feel free to personalize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this quesadilla. Just make sure it’s shredded or thinly sliced for even distribution and easier melting.
Can I Make These Quesadillas Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the quesadilla filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble and cook them as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat or microwave them briefly until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, or even those spicy jalapeños if you want to kick up the heat. Just remember not to overfill, or they may get messy!
