These shrimp quesadillas are a tasty twist on a classic! With seasoned shrimp and melty cheese tucked inside warm tortillas, they’re perfect for a quick meal.
I love how easy they are to make! Just grab some shrimp, cheese, and your favorite toppings, and you’re all set for a delicious bite. They’re great for sharing—or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well here. If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked shrimp can also be a time-saver. Just skip the cooking step and warm them up! I prefer large shrimp for a hearty bite.
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar cheese for its bold flavor, but a Mexican blend adds great varieties, too. If you’re looking for a alternative, consider Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for an extra kick!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are nice for a softer texture, but corn tortillas can give a gluten-free option and a wonderful crunch. Just make sure they’re thick enough so they won’t tear during cooking.
Pico de gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds zest, but if you’re short on time, store-bought salsa works well too. You could also swap in diced avocado for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is all about timing. Since they cook quickly, it’s important not to overdo it. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear. This locks in flavors.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and slightly charred. They should be opaque inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can trap steam and make them rubbery.
- Let them rest a minute before adding to the quesadillas for juiciness.
These tips will help create scrumptious shrimp quesadillas that are sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Shrimp Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Quesadillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that comes together super quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated so the shrimp are flavorful!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Assemble the Quesadillas:
Wipe out the skillet to remove any leftover shrimp bits, then reduce the heat to medium. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Lay half of the cooked shrimp over one half of the tortilla on top of the cheese.
4. Cook the Quesadilla:
Once the cheese begins to melt, carefully fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Repeat and Serve:
Remove the cooked quesadilla from the skillet and keep it warm while you repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and shrimp. Once all are done, cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve them hot, topped with guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
6. Garnish:
Don’t forget the lime wedges on the side for added zesty goodness!
Enjoy your flavorful shrimp quesadillas! They’re perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner option!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first, preferably by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.
Can I Make These Quesadillas Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling (cooked shrimp and cheese) in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready to eat, just assemble and cook the quesadillas as directed!
How Should I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Customize the Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or other cheeses to customize your quesadillas. Just make sure to chop them finely and pre-cook any raw vegetables to ensure they soften nicely!
