Sep 08 2026
RestaurantsJefferson SocialQuesadilla Cheese Recipe

Quesadilla Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Jefferson Social
Time35m
Serves6

Make Quesadilla Cheese Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Quesadilla Cheese Filling

Method

Quesadilla Cheese Filling

  1. 1

    Combine cheeses

    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar (2 cups), shredded Monterey Jack (1 cup) and the cream cheese (2 oz). Use a fork or spatula to break up the cream cheese and fold until the mixture is evenly combined and slightly creamy. If using Mexican blend, fold in 1/2 cup now.

  2. 2

    Add seasonings

    Stir in the diced green chiles (2 tbs), chopped cilantro (1 tbs), ground cumin (1/4 tsp), smoked paprika (1/4 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp) and black pepper (1/4 tsp). Taste and adjust salt or chiles to preference. The filling should be flavorful but still spreadable; if too stiff, let the mixture sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes or microwave 5–8 seconds and stir.

Assembly & Cooking

  1. 3

    Preheat skillet

    Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp olive oil or a small pat of butter to just coat the pan if desired; wipe excess with a paper towel so the tortilla browns evenly.

  2. 4

    Assemble quesadillas

    Lay one flour tortilla flat. Spoon about 3/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto one half of the tortilla and spread into an even layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold the empty half over the filling to form a half-moon. Repeat to make remaining quesadillas (should make approximately 6 half-moon quesadillas).

  3. 5

    Cook quesadillas

    Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat. Place one assembled quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp. Carefully flip using a spatula and cook the other side 1.5–2 minutes until golden and cheese is fully melted. Reduce heat slightly if the tortilla browns too quickly before the cheese melts. Repeat, adding more butter (about 1/2 tbs per quesadilla) as needed, cooking 2–3 at a time if your skillet fits.

  4. 6

    Rest and cut

    Transfer cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to allow the cheese to set slightly. Cut each quesadilla into 3 wedges (or leave whole for a taco bar). Keep warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) while finishing the rest.

  5. 7

    Serve

    Arrange quesadilla wedges in the DO-IT-YOURSELF TACO BAR alongside lime wedges and bowls of salsa, guacamole and/or sour cream for guests to top as they like.

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