Ingredients
- Large flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (your choice)
- Optional fillings: cooked chicken, black beans, corn, bell peppers, onion
- Seasonings: salt and pepper
Substitutions:
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
- Dairy-free cheese can replace regular cheese for those avoiding dairy.
Instructions
1. Preparation of Ingredients:
- If using chicken, ensure it’s cooked and shredded beforehand. You can use rotisserie chicken from Costco for convenience.
- Drain and rinse black beans if you’re including them.
- Slice any vegetables (bell peppers, onions) into thin strips for even cooking.
- Grate your cheese if it’s not already shredded.
2. Selecting the Right Tortillas:
- Choose large, burrito-sized flour tortillas for ease of folding and to ensure you can fill them generously. For a gluten-free option, select large corn tortillas.
3. Seasoning the Filling:
- For a simple seasoning, sprinkle salt and pepper over your chosen fillings.
- For more flavor, consider mixing your chicken or vegetables with a teaspoon of taco seasoning or a blend of cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder.
4. Assembling the Quesadillas:
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on one half.
- Add your chicken, beans, vegetables, and another layer of cheese. The extra cheese helps to bind the quesadilla when melted.
- Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
5. Prepping the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures immediate sizzling when the quesadillas are placed inside.
6. Arranging in the Basket:
- Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the quesadillas in the basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s some space between them for air to circulate. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
7. Cooking Time and Temperature:
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, then flip the quesadillas carefully and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
8. Why Temperature and Time Matter:
- The set temperature and time are key for melting the cheese perfectly while achieving a crispy exterior without burning.
9. Serving:
- Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Notes
- Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to mix and match fillings based on what you have. The beauty of quesadillas is their versatility.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Giving the quesadillas space in the air fryer ensures they crisp up nicely. Overcrowding can lead to soggy quesadillas.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your quesadillas, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Start checking them after 6 minutes of cooking and adjust as needed.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal or with rice and beans for something heartier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla per person
- Calories: 300-400 calories per serving
- Sugar: Minimal, depends on fillings
- Sodium: Moderate, adjust based on cheese and fillings
- Fat: 15-20g, varies with cheese and fillings
- Saturated Fat: Varies with cheese used
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g per serving
- Fiber: 2-3g, more if adding beans or vegetables
- Protein: 15-25g, varies greatly with chicken, cheese, and bean choices
Keywords: Air Fryer Costco Quesadillas