These shrimp quesadillas are quick and tasty! Filled with juicy shrimp and melted cheese, they make a perfect snack or meal. Just grill them until golden and crispy!
I love how easy they are to whip up! Plus, you can add your favorite veggies for extra crunch. Honestly, I can’t resist dipping them in salsa. Yum! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw and dry them before cooking. Some people prefer shrimp with tails on for presentation, while I like them peeled for easier eating.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work great for a soft and chewy texture, but corn tortillas can be a gluten-free alternative. You could also try whole wheat tortillas for added fiber. Just be sure they’re large enough to fold over your filling.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheeses for depth. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are perfect, but you can substitute with Pepper Jack for a kick or a vegan cheese alternative if needed.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the flavor with a zing. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you could use fresh parsley or green onions instead. They won’t be as bold, but they still add freshness.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Shrimp for Quesadillas?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to delicious quesadillas. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet for a good sear—medium-high heat works best.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. You can always add them back to the skillet while assembling quesadillas!
Remember, shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them and don’t walk away!
How to Make Shrimp Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup salsa or pico de gallo, for serving
- Lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you can enjoy your shrimp quesadillas in about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium-sized bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is coated evenly with the spices for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside while you prepare the quesadillas.
3. Prepare the Quesadillas:
Wipe the skillet clean to remove any leftover shrimp bits and lower the heat to medium. Place one tortilla flat in the skillet. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle about 1/3 cup of shredded cheese, followed by a quarter of the cooked shrimp, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
4. Cook the Quesadilla:
Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the filling and gently press down with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
5. Repeat and Serve:
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and cut it into wedges. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Serve your shrimp quesadillas warm, garnished with extra cilantro, fresh salsa or pico de gallo, and lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp quesadillas—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with bold flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you want to reduce dairy or go vegan, you can use a vegan cheese alternative that melts well or leave out the cheese altogether. Alternatively, for a different flavor, try using feta or goat cheese for a more tangy taste, but adjust the amount to your preference since they may not melt like traditional cheese.
How to Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftover shrimp quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. This will help maintain their crispiness!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Quesadillas?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the shrimp, or toss them in raw. Just make sure not to overstuff the quesadillas so they stay crispy when cooked!
