Air Fryer Quesadilla: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient and versatile kitchen appliance that can cook a variety of dishes, including quesadillas. Air fryer quesadillas are a quick, easy, and delicious meal option that can be customised with various ingredients. The air fryer cooks the tortilla to a perfect crisp, while the cheese melts to perfection. This article will provide an introduction to making quesadillas in an air fryer, covering the benefits, ingredients, cooking process, and serving suggestions.

Air fryer quesadilla fillings

Air fryer quesadillas are versatile and can be filled with whatever you like. Here are some ideas for fillings:

Beans and Cheese

A classic combination, you can use refried beans and any cheese you like, but melty cheese is a must. You could use Asiago, Brie, Blue Cheese, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Colby, American Cheese, Provolone, Havarti, Manchego, Mozzarella, Gruyere, or a blend.

Chicken

Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option for a protein-filled quesadilla. You could also use shredded chicken breast or Instant Pot shredded chicken.

Veggies

Try adding diced red bell peppers and onions, or tomatoes and spinach.

Meat

You could swap out the chicken for ground beef, taco meat, flank steak, blackened shrimp, or pork.

Other Ideas

• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Rice
• Chia, flax and hemp seeds
• Hummus and sunflower seeds
• Jalapeños
• Pepper jack cheese
• Hot sauce

Air fryer quesadilla toppings

Air fryer quesadillas are versatile and can be topped with anything you like. Here are some ideas for air fryer quesadilla toppings:

Cheese

The most important ingredient in a quesadilla is cheese. You can use any type of cheese, but it's good to include at least one melty kind. Here are some suggestions:

• Asiago
• Brie
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Monterey jack
• Cheddar
• Colby
• American cheese
• Provolone
• Havarti
• Manchego
• Mozzarella
• Gruyere

Meat

For a heartier meal, you can add meat to your quesadilla. Just make sure it's already cooked before adding it in. Some options include:

• Taco-seasoned ground beef
• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Shredded chicken breast
• Ground beef
• Taco meat
• Flank steak
• Blackened shrimp
• Pork

Veggies

You can also add some vegetables to your quesadilla for extra flavour and nutrition. Try:

• Red bell peppers
• Onions
• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Corn
• Chia seeds
• Flax seeds
• Hemp seeds
• Avocado

Spices and Seasonings

To add some extra flavour to your quesadilla, try adding some spices or seasonings. Some options include:

• Jalapenos
• Red pepper flakes
• Taco seasoning

Dips and Sides

Finally, don't forget to serve your quesadilla with some delicious dips and sides. Some options include:

• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Greek yogurt
• Salsa
• Rice
• Beans

Air fryer quesadilla cooking times

Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer. They're versatile, convenient, and can be made with a variety of fillings. The cooking time for air fryer quesadillas can vary depending on the ingredients used and the specific air fryer model, but here are some general guidelines to help you get perfectly cooked quesadillas every time.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Before you start cooking your quesadilla, it's important to check if your air fryer needs to be preheated. If it does, set it to the desired temperature, usually around 350°F (175-180°C), and let it heat up for about 5 minutes.

Cooking Time for Classic Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

For classic bean and cheese quesadillas, the cooking time is typically around 8 minutes at 350°F (175-180°C). It's important to flip the quesadilla halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.

Cooking Time for Quesadillas with Meat and Veggies

If you're adding meat, such as shredded chicken or ground beef, and veggies, such as bell peppers and onions, the cooking time may vary slightly. In this case, cook your quesadilla at 400°F (200°C) for 4-5 minutes or until it's golden brown. Again, flipping it halfway through is recommended.

Reheating Quesadillas

To reheat leftover quesadillas, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 2-3 minutes, adding additional time in 1-2 minute increments if needed. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the quesadilla soggy.

Tips for Success

• Keep an eye on your quesadilla during cooking, as air fryer models vary, and you don't want it to burn.
• Consider using toothpicks to hold the quesadilla together and prevent it from opening up during cooking.
• For extra crispness, brush the outside of the quesadilla with melted butter or olive oil before air frying.
• Be creative with your fillings, but be mindful that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the ingredients used.

Air fryer quesadilla storage

Air fryer quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, straight out of the fryer. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

When it comes to freezing, it is recommended to wrap the quesadillas in plastic wrap, then aluminium foil, and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, avoid the microwave as this will make the quesadillas soggy. Instead, use the air fryer, a non-stick skillet, or an oven toaster to reheat your quesadillas.

Air fryer quesadilla alternatives

Air fryers are a convenient way to make quesadillas, but there are other methods to achieve a similar result. Here are some alternatives to using an air fryer:

Oven-Baked Quesadillas

If you don't have an air fryer, a conventional oven is a suitable alternative. The cooking time may need to be increased, but the process is mostly the same. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, assemble your quesadillas, and place them on a baking sheet or tray. Bake until the tortillas are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.

Stovetop Quesadillas

Cooking quesadillas on a stovetop is a quick and easy method. Simply heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place your assembled quesadilla in the pan and cook until the tortilla is toasted and the cheese is melted, then flip and repeat on the other side. This method allows you to easily monitor the cooking process and ensure even browning.

Sandwich Press or Panini Maker

Using a sandwich press or panini maker is a convenient way to make quesadillas with minimal effort. Simply assemble your quesadilla, place it in the press, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. This method provides a similar outcome to an air fryer, with crispy tortillas and melted cheese.

Microwave

While not ideal for achieving crispy tortillas, the microwave is an option for a quick and convenient quesadilla. Assemble your quesadilla and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to one minute, or until the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Outdoor Grill

For a smoky flavour, try making quesadillas on an outdoor grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat and assemble your quesadillas. Place them on the grill and cook until grill marks appear and the cheese is melted, then flip and cook the other side.

No matter which method you choose, the beauty of quesadillas is their versatility. Get creative with your fillings and toppings to make them your own!

Frequently asked questions