Cheese and Ham Quesadilla Recipe – Easy Mexican-Inspired Snack

Cheese and Ham Quesadilla Recipe – Quesadillas are a beloved staple in Mexican-inspired cuisine, known for their crispy golden tortillas and gooey, melted cheese filling. Simple, versatile, and quick to prepare, quesadillas can be customized with endless ingredients, making them suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack. Among the many variations, the Cheese and Ham Quesadilla Recipe stands out as a family favorite.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

• Course: Lunch, Dinner, Snack

• Servings: 2 quesadillas (2 servings)

• Calories per serving: ~410 kcal

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Equipment Needed

• Non-stick skillet or frying pan

• Spatula (for flipping)

• Cutting board

• Knife (for slicing ham or cutting quesadillas)

• Plate for serving

Ingredients

• 4 medium flour tortillas (whole wheat or white)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix)

• 4 slices ham (deli-style or leftover cooked ham, chopped)

• 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking)

• Optional toppings/dips: salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce

Nutrition

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   • Place tortillas, shredded cheese, and ham on a clean surface or cutting board.

   • If using large slices of ham, chop or tear them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier layering.

2. Heat the Pan

   • Set a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and let it melt to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.

3. Assemble the First Quesadilla

   • Place one tortilla flat in the skillet.

   • Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla.

   • Add two slices of ham (or chopped ham pieces) on top of the cheese.

   • Sprinkle a little more cheese on top (this helps the second tortilla stick).

   • Place another tortilla on top to close the quesadilla.

4. Cook Until Golden

   • Let the quesadilla cook for about 2–3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.

   • Carefully flip the quesadilla with a spatula and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes.

5. Repeat for the Second Quesadilla

   • Remove the first quesadilla from the skillet, place it on a plate, and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and ham.

6. Slice and Serve

   • Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the quesadillas into wedges.

   • Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Healthier Option: Use whole-wheat tortillas, reduced-fat cheese, and lean ham.

• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach can be added inside for extra nutrients.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle jalapeños or chili flakes before cooking for a spicy twist.

• Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.

• Breakfast Style: Swap ham for cooked bacon or scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast quesadilla.

• Kid-Friendly: Cut the quesadillas into small triangles and serve with mild dips like ranch dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cheese and Ham Quesadilla Recipe combines comfort and convenience in every bite. It’s quick enough for weeknight dinners, customizable to suit picky eaters, and satisfying enough to be enjoyed by adults and children alike. Unlike more elaborate dishes, quesadillas require no complicated steps or special equipment—just a skillet, a spatula, and a few pantry staples.

What makes this dish even more versatile is its adaptability. You can switch out the protein, experiment with different cheeses, or sneak in extra vegetables without compromising flavor. It’s also budget-friendly, making it a go-to option when you need something filling without spending much time or money.

Conclusion

Cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor, the Cheese and Ham Quesadilla Recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a quick and satisfying snack or meal. With its golden-brown tortilla exterior and gooey melted cheese interior, this dish never fails to deliver comfort. Whether served on its own or alongside salsa and guacamole, it’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to any taste

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