Best Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe

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Let’s get your taste buds ready for a fiesta with shrimp quesadillas! First, it’s essential to talk about what pairs perfectly with this dish. You can’t go wrong with a zesty salsa, a dollop of sour cream, or a refreshing guacamole.

These accompaniments elevate your meal, bringing freshness and creaminess to balance the flavors of the quesadillas.

Don’t forget drinks. A chilled margarita or a sprightly lime soda can make your taste experience even more delightful. The colors of your plate, the flavors in your mouth, and the laughter from your friends will remind you why this dish is a keeper.

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Why This Recipe is Great for You

Now, let me introduce you to my best shrimp quesadilla recipe. The combination of shrimp, cheese, and fresh veggies wrapped in a soft tortilla is a match made in heaven. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

You can easily customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or what you have on hand. The flexibility is one of the most appealing aspects of this dish.

Plus, these quesadillas are quick to make. With minimal prep and cook time, dinner can be on the table in a flash.

I use this recipe frequently in my kitchen, especially when friends drop by unexpectedly. It’s one of those recipes that always feels like a celebration even on ordinary days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the exciting ingredients I’ve included in this recipe. Each one brings something unique to the table:

– 1 pound raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 6-8 medium soft flour tortillas

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped

– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix, or 1 tablespoon chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper

– 1-2 cups melted cheese (mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend)

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

– 1 tablespoon lime juice

How to Make the Best Shrimp Quesadillas

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process! I’ll break it down step by step, so you know exactly how to go from ingredients to a delicious meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.

The smell is just delightful! Next, add the diced red bell pepper. You’ll want to cook this for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the veggies have softened, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it—it can burn easily and become bitter.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Now, add your shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over them. Stir everything gently to ensure the shrimp is coated nicely with all those lovely spices.

Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. You’ll want to stir occasionally. Don’t overcook! Nobody likes rubbery shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Here’s where the fun part kicks in. Take a fresh tortilla and place it on a clean flat surface. Heap a portion of the shrimp and vegetable mixture right in the center. Remember that melted cheese pulls everything together, so add a generous layer of it on top. The more, the merrier!

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and place the folded quesadilla in the pan.

Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden-brown surface with melt-in-your-mouth cheese.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it sit for a minute. This helps the cheese set a bit. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice it into wedges. Serve with lime wedges, salsa, or guacamole on the side for dipping.

Recipe Notes

Shrimp: Fresh shrimp tastes best, but frozen shrimp works too. Just remember to thaw and drain thoroughly before using.
Tortillas: If you want a gluten-free option, check for available gluten-free tortillas.
Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses. Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend nicely.
Vegetables: You can swap out the bell pepper for whatever you have—zucchini, corn, or spinach add unique flavors too!
Seasoning: Adjust the spice level to your taste. If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños.

How to make Best Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe

Recipe Variations

Let’s get creative! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Add Avocado: Slices of fresh avocado can enhance the creaminess.
Black Beans: Adding black beans gives more protein and fiber.
Pineapple: Sweet grilled pineapple pieces can introduce a tasty contrast to spicy shrimp.
Spicy Ranch Dressing: Drizzle a bit of this on top before folding for an exciting flavor twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a veggie-packed meal.

nutrition facts

best shrimp quesadillas recipe nutrition facts

Best shrimp quesadillas recipe

Let’s get your taste buds ready for a fiesta with shrimp quesadillas! First, it's essential to talk about what pairs perfectly with this dish.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 14

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Mexican

Servings

Calories 2154 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

1 pound raw medium shrimp peeled and deveined
6-8 medium soft flour tortillas
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion finely chopped
1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix or 1 tablespoon chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper
1-2 cups melted cheese mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon lime juice