This turkey quesadilla is a fun and tasty meal! It’s made with juicy turkey, melted cheese, and your favorite veggies, all folded in a crispy tortilla. Yum!
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. I love adding extra toppings like salsa or guacamole—who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Leftover turkey works great here! Any cooked turkey (even deli slices) can substitute nicely. If you’re vegetarian, try black beans or sautéed mushrooms for protein.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are ideal for a soft texture, but corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option. Just adjust cooking times a bit since corn tortillas can cook faster.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries give a pleasant sweetness; you can swap them with raisins or even chopped apples for a different twist. Fresh cranberries won’t work as they are quite tart!
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella or Monterey Jack, but feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar for a sharper flavor. Vegan cheese options are great if you want a dairy-free alternative.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro brighten the dish. If you don’t have them, dried herbs can work too, but use less—about a teaspoon should do!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Quesadillas for That Perfect Crunch?
Getting the quesadilla just right is all about the cooking method. Here’s how you can achieve that lovely crispiness:
- Heat the skillet on medium heat before adding oil or butter—this prevents sticking.
- Make sure to compress the quesadilla slightly with a spatula after placing it in the skillet. This helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Keeping the heat at medium allows the cheese to melt without burning the tortilla. If you find the tortilla browning too fast, lower the heat!
- Flip carefully using two spatulas if needed, to avoid spilling the filling.
Once you’ve perfected the method, you’ll enjoy delicious quesadillas every time!
Turkey Quesadilla with Cranberries and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious turkey quesadilla takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 8-10 minutes to cook. So, you can have a tasty meal ready in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the fresh parsley and cilantro if using, and slice or shred your cooked turkey breast. Having everything at hand makes the cooking process smooth and fun!
2. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Lay one tortilla on a flat surface. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheese. Next, add a layer of turkey slices or shreds on top of the cheese, followed by a sprinkle of dried cranberries and chopped parsley (and cilantro if you like). Season lightly with salt and pepper, and top with another layer of cheese to help hold everything together.
3. Cook the Quesadilla:
Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling, creating a moon shape. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, place the folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the quesadilla using a spatula, and cook the other side until it’s also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about another 3-4 minutes. If you’re not sure if the cheese is melted yet, you can lift a corner to check!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute on a cutting board before slicing it into wedges. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm, and enjoy this delicious turkey quesadilla filled with savory turkey, melty cheese, and sweet cranberries—perfect for lunch or a quick dinner!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in this quesadilla. Just make sure it’s shredded or sliced into small pieces for even distribution and easy melting.
What Can I Substitute for Tortillas?
If you don’t have flour tortillas, corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option. You can also try whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through for the best texture, or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Add Other Veggies or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients such as diced bell peppers, onions, or even jalapeños for some heat. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them briefly if they’re raw before adding them to the quesadilla.
