Loaded Cheddar Potato Quesadilla
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy and cheesy delight with these Loaded Cheddar Potato Quesadillas! Perfect for using up extra mash, this recipe includes a rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh green onions, and a hint of spice. Whether enhanced with garlic or simply seasoned, the potatoes create a velvety filling that pairs wonderfully with the crispy tortillas. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish serves as a fantastic lunch option or a satisfying snack. Enjoy with a side of zesty salsa or creamy sour cream for added flavor. This delightful quesadilla may not be low in calories, but it is undeniably delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
burrito-size flour tortillas
2 large (none)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for cooking)
shredded cheddar cheese
2/3 cup (shredded)
prepared mashed potatoes
2/3-1 cup (prepared and at room temperature)
chopped green onions or dried onion flakes
2 tablespoons (chopped (for fresh green onions))
red and black pepper
1 tablespoon (mixed)
hot salsa
1/2 cup (for dipping)
sour cream or other cooked vegetables
as needed (for serving)
Instructions
1
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to warm.
2
Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly on one tortilla, ensuring to cover it fully.
3
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by chopped green onions and a sprinkle of red and black pepper to taste.
4
Carefully place the second tortilla on top of the cheese layer, gently pressing it down.
5
Transfer the quesadilla to the skillet, potato side up, and cover the skillet with a lid.
6
Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
7
Using a spatula, carefully flip the quesadilla and cook uncovered for an additional 3-4 minutes until the opposite side is also crispy.
8
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing it into wedges.
9
Serve hot with a side of salsa or sour cream for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Loaded Cheddar Potato Quesadilla?
It is a crispy flour tortilla filled with a savory mixture of mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, green onions, and spices.
What kind of tortillas should I use?
Burrito-size flour tortillas are recommended because they are large enough to hold a significant amount of filling and become very crispy when pan-fried.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but they are generally smaller and less pliable, so you may need to make several smaller quesadillas.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp shredded cheddar cheese is used for its bold flavor and excellent melting properties, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also work well.
How do I use leftover mashed potatoes in this dish?
Simply ensure the potatoes are at room temperature and spread them evenly over one of the tortillas before adding the other ingredients.
Can I add meat to the quesadilla?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or seasoned ground beef are delicious additions to the potato filling.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as written, provided your mashed potatoes were prepared without animal-based fats like lard.
How do I make the tortilla crispy?
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the tortilla until it is golden brown on both sides.
What temperature should I cook the quesadilla at?
Medium-high heat is ideal to ensure the cheese melts and the potatoes warm through while the exterior gets crispy without burning.
How long does it take to cook?
It takes about 4 to 5 minutes for the first side and an additional 3 to 4 minutes for the second side.
Can I use dried onion flakes instead of fresh green onions?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh green onions.
What spices are recommended?
A mix of red and black pepper is recommended for a balanced kick, but you can also add garlic powder or cumin for more depth.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat depending on how much red pepper you use and the spiciness of the salsa served on the side.
How do I keep the filling from falling out?
Press down gently on the top tortilla before cooking and use a wide spatula to support the quesadilla while flipping it.
Should the mashed potatoes be hot before I start?
The recipe suggests using potatoes at room temperature, as the skillet heat will warm them through as the cheese melts.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by using vegan tortillas, a plant-based cheese alternative, and mashed potatoes prepared with oil or plant milk.
What should I serve as a side for dipping?
Hot salsa and sour cream are the classic choices, but guacamole or ranch dressing are also tasty options.
What is the best way to flip the quesadilla?
Slide a large spatula underneath the bottom tortilla and place your hand (or another spatula) on top to guide it over quickly.
Can I bake this in the oven instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once, though it may be less crispy than the skillet version.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 5-8 minutes, turning halfway through. Use toothpicks to keep the top tortilla from blowing off if necessary.
How many people does one quesadilla serve?
One large quesadilla usually serves one person as a main meal or two people as a snack when cut into wedges.
Is this recipe low in calories?
No, this is a hearty comfort food dish. While delicious, it is high in carbohydrates and fats from the potatoes and cheese.
Can I freeze these quesadillas?
Yes, you can assemble them and freeze them with parchment paper between each layer. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating in a dry skillet over medium heat is the best way to restore the crispiness. Microwave heating will make the tortilla soft.
What other vegetables can I add?
Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach can be added to the cheese and potato layer for extra nutrition.
Do I have to use olive oil?
You can use butter for a richer flavor, though olive oil typically allows for a higher smoke point and a very even crisp.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any good melting cheese like Pepper Jack for more spice, or Mozzarella for a milder flavor and better stretch.
Why should I cover the skillet with a lid?
The lid traps steam, which helps the cheese melt more quickly and ensures the potato filling is heated all the way through.
How long should I let it sit before slicing?
Let it sit for about one minute. This allows the cheese to set slightly so the filling doesn't slide out when you cut it.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the flour tortillas with your favorite brand of large gluten-free tortillas.