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Jalapeño Popper Quesadilla Recipe

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4.8 from 117 reviews

Jalapeño Popper Quesadillas combine creamy, cheesy spiced filling with crispy tortillas, making a perfect appetizer or quick snack featuring a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños and savory bacon.

Ingredients

Filling

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Base

  • 2 large flour tortillas

Cooking Fat

  • Butter or oil, as needed for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and chopped cilantro until thoroughly combined to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
  2. Assemble the Quesadilla: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over one flour tortilla, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges. Place the second tortilla on top to form a sandwich, ensuring even coverage.
  3. Cook the Quesadilla: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the assembled quesadilla to the skillet and press down gently. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese inside has fully melted.
  4. Rest and Slice: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 1 minute to let the filling set slightly, then cut into wedges for serving.
  5. Serve: Serve the jalapeño popper quesadilla wedges hot with optional accompaniments such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • For less heat, use fewer jalapeños or remove all the seeds before dicing.
  • Feel free to swap bacon with a vegetarian alternative to make it meat-free.
  • Butter adds more flavor, but oil can be used for a neutral taste and to reduce saturated fat.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and taste as quesadillas can become soggy if left too long.
  • Extra folded tortillas can be cut smaller to make snack-sized quesadillas.