Taco Bell Quesadilla Recipe

This homemade Taco Bell quesadilla recipe lets you enjoy that familiar savory flavor without even having to hit the drive-thru!

I’ve perfected the combination of succulent chicken, melted cheese, and the famous creamy jalapeño sauce.

I recommend using a large skillet or griddle to cook the quesadillas evenly.

One tip for nailing the sauce: Balance the spicy kick of jalapeños with just the right amount of mayo and spices!

Don’t forget to set up your toppings bar!

How to Make Taco Bell Quesadilla Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups Chicken Breast (cooked and sliced)
• 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 4 Flour Tortillas (large)
• 1 cup Ranch Dressing
• 1 tbsp Jalapeños (chopped)
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tbsp Butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a bowl, mix the ranch dressing, chopped jalapeños, and ground cumin.

This will be your creamy quesadilla sauce.

Step 2:

Lay out your tortillas.

Spread a generous amount of the homemade sauce on each one.

Step 3:

Add the sliced chicken over the sauce.

Sprinkle an even amount of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted, place a prepared tortilla in the skillet.

Step 5:

Cook each side for about 2 minutes until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese has melted.

Cut the quesadilla into wedges and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Perfect Cheese Blend

Use both Monterey Jack and cheddar for the best melt and flavor.

If you like it extra cheesy, add more cheese than the recipe specifies.

Ideal Cook Time

Keep an eye on the quesadilla to avoid burning.

A crispy golden brown color is what you are looking for.

Spicy Sauce

Adjust the level of chilies in the sauce to your spice preference.

You can add or remove jalapeños to suit your taste.

Tortilla Texture

A quick butter swipe on the pan gives that crispy finish.

It adds richness and helps the quesadilla crisp up nicely.

Alternative Fillings

Don’t hesitate to try adding vegetables like peppers or onions if you want more variety.

It’s a great way to customize and make it your own.

What to Serve with Taco Bell Quesadilla

Classic Guacamole

When it comes to serving a Taco Bell quesadilla, a classic guacamole dish is a must.

The creamy texture of the guacamole pairs wonderfully with the cheesy goodness of a quesadilla.

Just mash some ripe avocados with some lime juice, salt, and diced tomatoes.

Fresh Salsa

You can’t go wrong with a side of fresh salsa to complement your quesadilla.

A mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime delivers a refreshing burst of flavors.

If you like, throw in a few jalapeños to add a little heat.

Corn Salad

A zesty corn salad adds a sweet and tangy element to your meal.

Combine corn kernels with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

It brings a pop of color and freshness to the table, perfect for balancing the rich flavors of the quesadilla.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Consider serving cilantro lime rice as a side dish for a warm, citrus-infused flavor.

Cook your rice and then mix in fresh cilantro and lime juice to give it a bright, fragrant taste.

It’s simple to prepare and works as an excellent side dish for your quesadillas.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables add a unique twist to your meal, infusing it with earthy flavors.

Season a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with olive oil and your choice of spices.

Roast them in the oven until they’re slightly crispy and caramelized!

Sweet Potato Fries

For a surprising side dish, try sweet potato fries with your quesadilla.

They offer a sweet and savory twist that contrasts so well with the savory quesadilla ingredients.

They’re easy to make and add a fun, unexpected touch to your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Proteins

You can easily swap out the chicken in your Taco Bell quesadilla for a variety of proteins if you want variety.

Steak, shrimp, or even beans work perfectly for different flavors and textures.

Cheese Choices

Feel free to experiment with the type of cheese you use, mixing cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack to add some extra zest to your quesadilla.

Tortilla Options

You don’t have to stick with the traditional flour tortillas!

Try using whole wheat or corn tortillas if you’re looking for a healthier twist or flavor variation.

Sauce Tweaks

To keep things fun, consider changing up the sauce.

Mix sour cream with a dash of chipotle powder for some heat, or add a squeeze of lime for a fresh finish.

Vegan Variations

It’s totally possible to create a vegan version of this quesadilla by using plant-based cheese and proteins like tofu or black beans.

This keeps the dish inclusive and exciting for everyone.

How to Store Leftover Taco Bell Quesadillas

Storing leftover quesadillas can be a breeze if you follow a few simple steps.

First, wrap each quesadilla tightly in foil.

This helps to lock in the flavors and prevents them from drying out.

Alternatively, use an airtight container if you’re short on foil.

Choose an appropriate-sized container to avoid squeezing the quesadillas.

Once wrapped or sealed, place them in the refrigerator.

You can keep them stored for up to three days this way.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to store the quesadillas longer, freezing is your best bet.

Wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap first.

Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.

They’ll stay fresh for up to two months!

Label & Date

I always recommend labeling and dating your packages.

This practice helps you track how long they’ve been stored.

You’ll know at a glance when it’s time to use or toss them.

By following these steps, your leftover quesadillas will remain fresh and tasty!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Too Much Mayonnaise

When making the sauce, start with a smaller amount of mayonnaise.

Too much can overpower the spices and make the sauce too heavy.

You can always add more later if needed!

Overstuffing the Quesadilla

One common mistake is overstuffing the quesadilla with ingredients.

This can cause the filling to spill out and make a mess.

Keep it simple and balanced for a neat and tasty treat.

Choosing the Wrong Cheese

Not all cheeses melt equally well in quesadillas.

Opt for cheeses that melt smoothly, like Monterey Jack or cheddar.

Avoid using hard cheeses that don’t melt as easily.