This ham and cheese quesadilla is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. With melted cheese and savory ham sandwiched between crispy tortillas, it’s a favorite for both kids and adults.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with additional ingredients like vegetables or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Preparation Steps for Your Quesadilla
Creating a ham and cheese quesadilla is a straightforward process that can be completed in just 15 minutes.
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. This includes flour tortillas, your choice of shredded cheese, sliced ham, and butter. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Next, slice the ham if it isn’t pre-sliced. This ensures even distribution throughout the quesadilla, allowing each bite to be packed with flavor.
Cooking the Quesadilla
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter.
Once the butter is sizzling, place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla, followed by a generous layer of ham.
Finish with the remaining cheese and top it off with a second tortilla. This layering technique is key to achieving that gooey, melted cheese effect.
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla turns a beautiful golden brown.
Using a spatula, carefully flip the quesadilla over. Add the remaining butter to the pan to ensure the other side crisps up nicely.
Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute.
Cut it into wedges for easy serving. The melted cheese should be oozing out, making it visually appealing and inviting.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve alongside a small bowl of salsa and a dollop of sour cream for added zest.
Customizing Your Quesadilla
While the classic ham and cheese combination is always a hit, there are plenty of ways to customize your quesadilla.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to give it a unique twist.
Nutritional Information
This ham and cheese quesadilla serves two and is a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 20 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein.
With 30 grams of carbohydrates, it provides a balanced meal that can keep you energized throughout the day.
Easy Ham and Cheese Quesadilla Recipe
This quesadilla features layers of gooey cheese and slices of ham, cooked until golden brown and crispy. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
- 1 cup sliced ham
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and slice the ham if not pre-sliced.
- Heat the Pan: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over the tortilla, then layer the ham on top, followed by the remaining cheese. Top with the second tortilla.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and add the remaining butter to the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and salsa if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2 quesadillas
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g