Description
Culinary magic unfolds with this blooming quesadilla ring, a spectacular Mexican-inspired dish that twirls tortillas into a mesmerizing circular feast. Crispy edges, melted cheese, and zesty fillings create an irresistible centerpiece that will draw hungry guests closer for a delightful shared meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 20 taco-size tortillas
Vegetables:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
Sauce:
- 1 cup taco sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 375˚F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cooking surface.
- Create a flavorful filling by thoroughly blending shredded chicken, diced onion, chopped red bell pepper, minced jalapeño, and tangy taco sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Transform tortillas by slicing each into halves, then generously layer with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses alongside the prepared chicken mixture.
- Skillfully roll each tortilla half into a cone shape, carefully sealing the filling inside to prevent spillage during baking.
- Position a wide-mouth jar at the center of the baking sheet as a guide, then strategically arrange 13 tortilla cones around it, positioning pointed ends towards the central jar.
- Create multiple layers by sprinkling additional cheese between each ring of tortilla cones, ensuring complete coverage and maximum cheesy goodness.
- Remove the central jar and transfer the assembled quesadilla ring to the preheated oven, baking for 15-20 minutes until the tortillas turn golden and crisp, and the cheese melts completely.
- Gently transfer the finished quesadilla ring to a serving platter, placing a complementary dip in the center for an interactive and delicious presentation. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adjusting jalapeño quantity or using milder peppers for sensitive palates.
- Swap chicken with black beans or shredded beef for alternative protein options that suit vegetarian or meat preferences.
- Use low-fat cheese or dairy-free alternatives to create a lighter, healthier version of this crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Ensure tortilla cones are tightly rolled to prevent filling from falling out during baking, maintaining a neat and professional presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg