Air Fryer Quesadilla Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Air fryer quesadillas are a game-changer for quick and tasty meals. With just a few ingredients, you can create crispy and cheesy quesadillas that are perfect for any time of the day.

You can customize your quesadillas with your favorite fillings like beans, chicken, or veggies. Then, just let the air fryer do its magic. You’ll get a delicious, golden-brown snack or meal in minutes.

You’ll also find tips on how to get that perfect crunch and ideas for dips and sides to pair with your quesadilla. Ready to make the best quesadilla of your life? Read on!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

You’ll need a few basic ingredients for air fryer quesadillas. Here’s what you’ll need and some possible substitutes:

Tortillas

• Flour Tortillas: These are most common. Choose 8-inch or 10-inch size.
• Substitute: You can use corn tortillas, but they may be less pliable.

Cheese

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese melts best.
• Substitute: Any melty cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

Filling Choices

Basic Options

• Refried Beans
• Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced.

Substitutes

• Vegetarian: Use black beans, grilled veggies, or mushrooms.
• Other Meats: Ground beef, turkey, or even fish.

Additional Ingredients

• Salsa
• Onions
• Bell Peppers

Optional Ingredients

• Sour Cream
• Avocado or Guacamole
• Jalapeños for a spicy kick

Seasonings

• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning.
• Taco Seasoning: Adds extra flavor.

Substitutes

• Homemade Spice Mix: Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

Tips

• Air Fryer Liner or Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking.
• Toothpicks: Keep the quesadilla closed.

Experiment with these ingredients to find your perfect combination!

Instructions

1. 
   

   Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Check your air fryer manual to see if preheating is necessary for your model.

   
   
2. 
   

   Take a tortilla and place it on a flat surface.

   
   
3. 
   

   Spread refried beans or salsa over one half of the tortilla.

   
   
4. 
   

   Sprinkle cheese evenly over the beans or salsa. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese you prefer.

   
   
5. 
   

   Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to secure the filling.

   
   
6. 
   

   Spritz cooking spray lightly on both sides of the folded tortilla. This helps it crisp up in the air fryer.

   
   
7. 
   

   Place the quesadilla in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

   
   
8. 
   

   Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are golden brown.

   
   
9. 
   

   Remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute.

   
   
10. 
    

    Cut into wedges and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as guacamole or sour cream.

    
    

Enjoy your homemade air fryer quesadilla!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Preheat Your Air Fryer: If your air fryer needs preheating, do it before placing the quesadilla inside. This ensures even cooking from the start.

Brush with Butter or Oil: Lightly brush the tortilla with melted butter or oil. This helps achieve a crispy outside.

Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing your quesadilla. Too much filling can cause it to burst open.

Cook at 350°F: Set your air fryer to 350°F. This temperature is perfect for melting cheese and crisping the tortilla.

Flip Halfway: For even browning, flip the quesadilla halfway through the cooking process.

Press if Necessary: If the tortilla opens while cooking, gently press it back together with a spatula.

Use Parchment Paper: Place a piece of parchment paper under the quesadilla in the air fryer. This prevents sticking.

Storing Leftovers: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.

Freezing: Freeze quesadillas by wrapping them in plastic wrap, then placing them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating From Frozen: To reheat, place frozen quesadillas in the air fryer at 350°F. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through.

Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings like chicken, veggies, or beans for variety. Just keep the amount manageable.

Using these tips and tricks ensures your air fryer quesadillas come out perfect every time. Happy cooking!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
• Protein Additions: Add cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use black beans, corn, avocado, and bell peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Breakfast Quesadilla: Include scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage, and breakfast cheese.

Serving Suggestions

1. Dipping Sauces

   • Sour Cream
   • Guacamole
   • Salsa
   • Pico de Gallo

2. Side Dishes

   • Mexican Rice
   • Black Beans
   • Corn Salad
   • Green Salad

3. Toppings

   • Fresh Cilantro
   • Sliced Avocado
   • Lime Wedges

Feel free to mix and match to make your perfect air fryer quesadilla!