Air-Fryer Quesadillas

The ease of the air fryer makes this air-fryer quesadilla recipe a breeze when you’re short on time. Four simple ingredients and 10 minutes are all you need to make a batch of quesadillas that are perfectly crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside.

Whether you’re prepping appetizers for a potluck or feeding your hungry family, these quesadillas are easily customizable—add some protein like shredded chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal, or amp up the spice by topping them with pickled jalapenos. Plus, with minimal prep and cooking, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your company.

Air-Fryer Quesadilla Ingredients

• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: This pre-shredded Mexican cheese mix typically includes cheddar and Monterey Jack, providing the perfect gooey filling for your quesadillas.
• Salsa: Just 1/2 cup of salsa adds a zesty kick and complements the cheese. Choose a salsa with your preferred heat level or make your own restaurant-quality salsa at home.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas form the crispy exterior of these air-fryer cheese quesadillas. While 8-inch tortillas work well in most air fryers, adjust the size based on your air fryer’s capacity.
• Cooking spray: Cooking spray helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior on the tortillas.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the filling

TASTE OF HOME

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded Mexican cheese blend and salsa, mixing well to ensure the salsa is evenly distributed.

Editor’s Tip: If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply run it empty at 375° for about three minutes before adding the quesadillas.

Step 2: Assemble the quesadillas

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Spread the cheese and salsa mixture over half of each tortilla, then fold the tortillas over to create a half-moon shape.

Editor’s Tip: Leave a small border around the edge to prevent the filling from oozing out during cooking.

Step 3: Air-fry the quesadillas

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Working in batches, place the folded quesadillas in a single layer on a lightly greased tray in the air-fryer basket, then spritz the tops with cooking spray. Cook until they’re golden brown and the cheese has melted, five to seven minutes (flipping them halfway through will make them evenly crispy on both sides).

Editor’s Tip: Since cook times vary dramatically between brands of air fryers, we give a wide range for the suggested cook time. Begin checking at the lower time, then adjust as needed.

Step 4: Cut them into wedges

TASTE OF HOME

Remove the quesadillas from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Cut them into wedges and serve them while they’re still hot.

CHRISTINE MA FOR TASTE OF HOME

Air-Fryer Quesadilla Variations

• Add some protein: Mix in cooked shredded chicken, beef or black beans to make these air-fryer quesadillas heartier.
• Amp up the spice: Add a few pickled jalapeno slices or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
• Load it with veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, corn, sauteed mushrooms or baby spinach to add nutrition and flavor to these air-fryer cheese quesadillas.
• Make it for breakfast: Use scrambled eggs and crispy bacon bits along with the cheese for a morning-inspired twist.

How to Store Air-Fryer Quesadillas

Allow leftovers of these air-fryer quesadillas to cool completely before wrapping them individually in storage wrap and then aluminum foil. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can you freeze an air-fryer quesadilla?

Yes, these quesadillas freeze quite well. Wrap any leftovers well and freeze them for up to two months.

How do you reheat air-fryer quesadillas?

You can reheat your quesadillas the same way you made them: in the air fryer! Preheat the appliance to 375° and toss them back in for just a few minutes. They’ll be ready to go before you can even make yourself a margarita to go with them!

Air-Fryer Quesadilla Tips

What can you serve with air-fryer quesadillas?

Dip these quesadillas in sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), guacamole or salsa. You can also round out your meal with a side dish or two, including homemade refried beans and a zesty bowl of Mexican rice.

Can I use different cheeses for this quesadilla in the air fryer?

Absolutely! If you don’t have any Mexican cheese on hand, feel free to experiment with other cheeses that are good for melting—pepper jack will give you a spicy kick, while smoked Gouda adds an umami taste. You’ll want to avoid hard cheeses, as they don’t melt well.

Can I make these air-fryer quesadillas gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free tortillas. Alternately, use corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. Make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as gluten-free tortillas may cook faster.

What else can you put in air-fryer quesadillas?

The fun part about these quesadillas is that they’re so customizable. The cheese and salsa pair nicely with most other fillings, such as shredded chicken or pork, seasoned taco meat or fajita veggies. Cilantro, pickled jalapenos and onion are flavorful additions too!