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Air Fryer Cheese Quesadillas

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadillas

iamwinfred
Golden, crispy tortillas with a gooey, melted cheese center that pulls apart in the most satisfying way. No stovetop splatter, no flipping anxiety, no babysitting a pan. The air fryer does all the work, and it does it fast. Perfect for a quick snack, lunch, or late-night craving.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 9 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 2 quesadillas
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer 5-6 quart recommended, must fit a large tortilla flat
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Tongs or wide spatula
  • Small bowl for serving sauces
  • Cooking spray or oil spray bottle

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large flour tortillas 8–10 inch
  • 1½ cups Mexican blend or cheddar cheese about 170g, preferably freshly shredded from a block
  • Cooking spray or avocado oil in a spray bottle

For Serving

  • Sour cream
  • Salsa

Instructions
 

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  • Place a flour tortilla flat on a cutting board. Spread ¾ cup of shredded cheese evenly over one half of the tortilla, keeping it about ½ inch from the edges. Fold the empty half over the cheese.
  • Lightly spray both sides of the folded quesadilla with cooking spray.
  • Place the quesadilla flat in the air fryer basket (do not stack). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden.
  • Carefully flip the quesadilla using tongs or a spatula. Air fry for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted.
  • Remove from air fryer. Repeat with the second quesadilla.
  • Cut each quesadilla into 3 triangles. Serve immediately with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Notes

  • Freshly shredded cheese is best - Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Shredding your own from a block makes a noticeable difference.
  • Don't skip preheating - A hot air fryer gives the tortilla that immediate sear that creates crispiness.
  • Don't overstuff - Too much cheese makes flipping harder and causes cheese to leak and burn on the basket.
  • Press the edges down - Before placing the quesadilla in the air fryer, press along the folded edge to help it stay closed during cooking.
  • Use toothpicks if needed - If your quesadilla keeps popping open, secure the edge with one or two toothpicks before cooking. Remove before slicing.
  • Check your air fryer wattage - Higher wattage air fryers run hotter, so start checking at the 4-minute mark to avoid burning.
  • Storage - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating - Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid the microwave as it makes the tortilla rubbery.
  • Freezing instructions - Wrap cooled quesadillas individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Make it a meal - Serve with black beans, refried beans, or a simple soup like tomato soup for a more substantial lunch or dinner.

Nutrition

Serving: 1quesadillaCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 45mgIron: 8mg
Keyword air fryer quesadilla, cheese quesadilla, easy snack
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