These shrimp quesadillas are packed with delicious shrimp, melted cheese, and tasty veggies all sandwiched between tortillas. They’re quick to make and oh-so-satisfying!
Perfect for a fun dinner or a snack while watching a game, I can never resist them! Plus, dipping them in salsa is just the best part. Who’s with me? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are perfect for quesadillas due to their bite-sized nature. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using cooked chicken or even tofu to keep it plant-based. You could also go with canned shrimp if fresh doesn’t fit your plan.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and flexible, making them great for quesadillas. Feel free to swap them out for corn tortillas if you’re gluten-free or want a different flavor! Just keep in mind that corn tortillas can be a bit more delicate.
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its bold flavor, but Mexican blend cheese works wonderfully too! If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor. If you want to reduce heat, skip the jalapeño or use mild paprika. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp so they stay juicy but are fully cooked can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Start with thawed shrimp if using frozen; pat them dry with paper towels.
- Use medium-high heat for a quick cook – around 2 minutes per side. Watch closely, as shrimp cook fast!
- Stop cooking once they turn pink and opaque. They’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them off the heat!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Your Quesadillas?
Presentation can elevate your dish! Here’s how to serve them with style:
- Slice the quesadillas into wedges for easy sharing.
- Top with freshly made pico de gallo for a burst of color and flavor.
- Don’t forget the guacamole or sour cream on the side for dipping – they add creaminess that balances the spices!
Enjoy making your shrimp quesadillas – they’re sure to be a hit!
How to Make Delicious Shrimp Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quesadillas:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish
For the Pico de Gallo:
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
For Serving:
- Guacamole or sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious snack with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are coated evenly with the spices!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove from heat and chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
3. Build the Quesadilla:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Place one tortilla flat in the skillet. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then top with the chopped shrimp, diced red bell pepper, and cilantro.
4. Fold and Cook:
Add another layer of cheese on top of the filling and fold the tortilla over to cover the shrimp mixture. Cook the quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is gooey and melted. Don’t forget to press gently with a spatula to seal it!
5. Slice and Prepare Pico de Gallo:
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into wedges. To prepare the pico de gallo, combine diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice in a small bowl. Mix everything well!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm shrimp quesadillas topped with a scoop of fresh pico de gallo and a side of guacamole or sour cream. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking and enjoy your scrumptious shrimp quesadillas!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make These Quesadillas Spicier?
If you like heat, you can add more chili powder or diced jalapeño. You could also include a dash of cayenne pepper in the shrimp mixture for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the shrimp mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the quesadillas, just assemble and cook as usual!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat, or microwave them for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
