Air-Fryer Quesadillas: Melty Cheese, Crispy Tortilla

Air fryer quesadillas are a quick, easy, and delicious meal option. They are versatile, allowing for a variety of fillings and ingredients to be used, and can be made in just a few simple steps. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make the perfect cheese quesadilla in an air fryer, ensuring a crispy and golden tortilla with melted cheese.

Choosing your fillings

The best thing about making quesadillas is that you can fill them with whatever you like! The classic combination is refried beans and cheese, but you can also add roasted veggies, leftover chicken, or extra cheese.

If you're feeling creative, try out different types of cheese such as Asiago, Brie, blue cheese crumbles, Monterey jack, cheddar, Colby, American cheese, provolone, havarti, manchego, mozzarella, or gruyere.

You can also add some heat with jalapenos or red pepper flakes, or bulk up your quesadilla with rice, black beans, or refried beans. For some extra nutrition, add veggies like corn, bell peppers, onions, or spinach.

If you're adding meat to your quesadilla, make sure it's pre-cooked. You could try taco-seasoned ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken.

And don't forget that you can also make your quesadilla gluten-free by using corn tortillas or dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese.

Assembly

To assemble a cheese quesadilla in an air fryer, you'll need to follow a few simple steps.

First, place a tortilla on a flat surface. You can use flour tortillas or corn tortillas, depending on your preference and dietary needs. If you want a crispy quesadilla, you can lightly brush the tortilla with olive oil or spray it with olive oil cooking spray. This step will enhance the crispiness of your quesadilla.

Next, it's time to add the fillings. Spread your chosen fillings on half of the tortilla. You can stick to the classic combination of refried beans and cheese, or get creative with your favourite ingredients. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding leftover rotisserie chicken, roasted vegetables, or even just cheese on its own. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free tortilla.

Once you have added your fillings, it's time to fold the tortilla in half, creating a quesadilla pocket. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas if you are making multiple quesadillas.

Now, carefully place the folded tortillas in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between them to allow for even cooking. If your air fryer is large enough, you can place multiple quesadillas in the basket at once. If your quesadillas are opening up, you can use toothpicks to secure the edges together or place a trivet, rack, or a heavy oven-safe object on top to keep them closed.

Finally, it's time to cook your quesadillas. Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 8 minutes, flipping the quesadillas halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model. Your quesadillas are ready when the tortillas are golden and crisp, and the cheese has melted.

Now you know how to assemble and cook delicious cheese quesadillas in an air fryer! Enjoy your crispy and cheesy creation as a snack, lunch, or anytime meal.

Air fryer settings

Firstly, it is important to preheat your air fryer. Most recipes recommend setting your air fryer to 350°F/175°C. However, some air fryers, such as oven-style basket air fryers, may not require preheating, so be sure to check your air fryer's manual.

Once preheated, it's time to prepare your quesadilla for cooking. Place your tortilla on a flat surface, and if desired, spread refried beans or another filling of your choice over half of the tortilla. Sprinkle cheese on top of the beans, then fold the tortilla in half. Repeat this process with another tortilla if you want a double-layered quesadilla. For a crispier quesadilla, you can lightly spray or brush the tortilla with olive oil before adding the fillings.

Now it's time to cook your quesadilla! Place the folded tortillas in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between them for the hot air to circulate. Use a trivet, rack, or a heavy oven-safe object to weigh them down, or secure them with toothpicks to prevent them from opening during cooking.

Air fry your quesadillas for about 6 to 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer's brand and capacity. You'll know they're done when the tortillas are golden and crisp, and the cheese has melted.

Finally, serve your quesadillas with your favourite toppings and sides. Guacamole, sour cream, Greek yoghurt, salsa, and salad are all excellent choices. Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and cheesy air fryer quesadillas!

Cooking time

The cooking time for a cheese quesadilla in an air fryer will vary depending on the amount of filling and the desired level of crispiness. On average, a quesadilla will take around 6 to 8 minutes to cook in an air fryer, but this can range from 3 minutes to 10 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the quesadilla while it is cooking, as different air fryers may have varying cooking times and temperatures.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the quesadilla. It is also important to leave space between multiple quesadillas in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. Additionally, flipping the quesadilla halfway through the cooking process will ensure that both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.

If you are using a lot of filling or want an extra crispy texture, you may need to increase the cooking time. However, be careful not to overcook the quesadilla, as this can make the tortilla too hard or burn the filling. It is always better to start with a shorter cooking time and add more time as needed, checking on the quesadilla periodically to ensure it is cooking evenly.

Some recipes suggest microwaving the quesadilla for a few seconds before transferring it to the air fryer. This helps to melt the cheese and prevent the filling from spilling out. However, this step is not necessary, and you can achieve the same results by simply cooking the quesadilla in the air fryer for a slightly longer period.

Serving suggestions

Quesadillas are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetiser, side, or main course. They are a great option for busy weeknights when you need to get food on the table quickly.

As a snack or appetiser

Quesadillas are a tasty, quick, and easy snack, and you can make them even more delicious by serving them with a variety of dips. Try serving them with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or Greek yoghurt. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh, healthy salad.

As a side

Quesadillas are a great side dish to accompany a variety of meals. Try serving them with this easy taco soup, tortilla soup, or avocado chicken. They also go well with rice and beans.

As a main

For a more substantial meal, add some meat or extra veggies to your quesadilla. Chicken, beef, or leftover rotisserie chicken are all tasty options. You could also add in some taco-seasoned ground beef, or roasted veggies.

For a lighter main course option, serve your quesadilla with a large salad.

For picky eaters

Quesadillas are a great option for picky eaters, as you can adapt the recipe to suit their tastes.

For vegetarians and vegans

This recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians and vegans. Simply switch out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative, and use a gluten-free tortilla if needed.

Storing and reheating

If you have any leftover quesadillas, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for the crispiest results.

Quesadillas can also be frozen for up to three months. Simply defrost and reheat in the air fryer for a quick and easy meal.

Frequently asked questions