Save These Speedy Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas are my go to solution for busy nights when I crave something wholesome and tasty but am short on time With melty cheese savory turkey and tender spinach folded between golden tortillas this dish comes together in minutes but feels like comfort food Everyone in my house gets excited when they smell these crisp tortillas sizzling on the skillet
I first whipped up these quesadillas after a hectic soccer practice and my family devoured every slice We have made them countless times and even my picky niece asks for seconds
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey breast: thinly sliced or shredded adds lean protein and makes these quesadillas satisfying use roast turkey from the deli counter for best flavor or leftover roasted turkey from a holiday meal
- Fresh baby spinach: wilts beautifully and sneaks in extra nutrition choose bright green unbruised leaves for best results
- Shredded cheese: like Monterey Jack or cheddar transforms into that classic gooey filling buy cheese in blocks and shred yourself for optimal melt and fewer additives
- Flour tortillas: pliable and easy to crisp up medium or large sizes work best look for tortillas with minimal added ingredients for best taste
- Red onion: thinly sliced for mild sharpness opt for firm onions without soft spots
- Olive oil: for brushing tortillas ensures a golden crispy exterior avoid pomace oil for better flavor
- Salt and black pepper: enhance the natural flavors use freshly cracked pepper for a little bite
Instructions
- Prep the Filling:
- Chop or shred the turkey breast into bite size strips Wash the spinach thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel Shred your cheese and thinly slice the red onion Arrange all filling ingredients within easy reach to speed up the assembly process
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat Once warm place a tortilla on the skillet working one at a time letting it soften for about 30 seconds This step makes them easier to fold and less likely to tear
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Sprinkle a generous handful of cheese on one half of each tortilla Arrange turkey slices evenly over the cheese Top with a loose pile of fresh spinach and scatter a few onion slices Season with salt and pepper to taste Add a bit more cheese on top to help seal the quesadilla when melted
- Fold and Toast:
- Carefully fold the empty side of the tortilla over the filling to make a half moon Brush the outside lightly with olive oil Flip the quesadilla and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until each surface is deep golden and crispy You may need to press down gently with a spatula Check that the cheese has fully melted before removing from the pan Repeat with remaining tortillas adding more oil as needed
- Slice and Serve:
- Let the quesadillas rest for one minute on a cutting board This helps the filling set Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice each into wedges Serve hot while the cheese is perfectly gooey
Save The cheese in this recipe is my favorite part because it creates that irresistible pull apart effect and wraps everything together Last Thanksgiving I used leftover roast turkey in these with my dad and we laughed as we raced to the kitchen for seconds This dish now signals an easygoing evening at our house
Storage Tips
To store leftovers let quesadillas cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or sealing in an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat to restore that signature crisp Reheating in the microwave works but the tortilla will soften and lose its crunch If preparing ahead you can assemble unbaked quesadillas layer between parchment and refrigerate for one day before toasting
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in chopped rotisserie chicken roast chicken or cooked ground turkey for the filling For a vegetarian version use black beans drained well or sautéed mushrooms Replace spinach with baby kale arugula or a handful of chopped zucchini Dairy free versions work well with vegan cheese blends on hand Sliced bell pepper or jalapeño add a punch of flavor if your crowd likes heat
Serving Suggestions
Serve with salsa sour cream or guacamole for classic dipping Add a simple green salad to balance the meal If you have extra fillings scatter them on the side for snacking These also make great appetizers cut into small wedges with toothpicks My family sometimes enjoys them for breakfast with a fried egg on top
Save These quesadillas come out crisp and golden every time Make them your own with the fillings you love and enjoy a quick comforting meal
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep quesadillas crispy?
Cook on a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat and avoid overfilling so both sides crisp nicely.
- → Can I use leftover turkey?
Yes, leftover turkey works great and adds flavor. Just chop or shred before adding to tortillas.
- → What cheese works best?
Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella melt smoothly and complement turkey and spinach flavors.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Try sprinkling taco seasoning, cumin, or adding sliced jalapeños inside for a spicy kick.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole are popular choices to enrich the flavors of this quesadilla dish.