Savory shaddai's ultimate ham and cheese quesadilla recipe

A classic lunchtime favorite, elevated

Ham and cheese quesadillas are a comfort Food staple that never go out of style. But, with a few simple tweaks and a focus on quality ingredients, this beloved dish can be taken to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.

The perfect combination

For this recipe, we're pairing thinly sliced black forest ham with a blend of cheddar, Colby jack, and pepper jack cheese. The smoky, savory ham provides a rich depth of flavor, while the three-cheese mix melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

A crispy, golden exterior

To achieve that perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese, we're using flour tortillas and cooking them in a buttered skillet over medium-high heat. A light coating of butter on one side ensures an even golden brown, while the filling stays warm and melty.

Assembly and cooking

Place a tortilla in the hot skillet, buttered side down. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of cheese on half of the tortilla, followed by 2-3 slices of chopped ham and the remaining cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt and the bottom tortilla is browned.

Flip and finish

Carefully flip the quesadilla over and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the second side is also golden and the cheese is fully melted. Use a spatula to transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and slice into wedges while hot.

Serving suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, serve your ham and cheese quesadilla with a fresh and crisp side salad, like a cucumber tomato mix, or a sweet and crunchy mandarin broccoli salad. These contrasting textures and flavors enhance the savory, comforting qualities of the quesadilla.

Make ahead and storage

While quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the filling ingredients in advance. Simply chop the ham, pre-shred the cheese, and store them separately until ready to assemble and cook. Cooked quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or skillet for a quick lunch.

More quesadilla recipes

Looking for some new twists on this classic? Check out our other quesadilla recipes, featuring chicken fajita, steak, pulled pork, turkey, Korean beef, and more. With these variations, you'll never get bored of the beloved ham and cheese combo.

• Chicken Fajita Quesadilla: Add sautéed chicken, onions, and bell peppers for a flavorful Tex-Mex take.
• Steak Quesadilla: Slice grilled ribeye and pair with caramelized onions and cheddar for a hearty, satisfying option.
• Pulled Pork Quesadilla: Use tender, tangy pulled pork and sprinkle with cilantro for a delicious Southwestern-inspired quesadilla.
• Turkey Quesadilla: Add sliced turkey breast, avocado, and salsa for a healthier, yet still indulgent, twist.
• Korean Beef Quesadilla: Marinate thinly sliced beef in a sweet and spicy Korean-inspired sauce, then cook with kimchi and mozzarella for a unique flavor combination.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour? Yes, but keep in mind they'll have a firmer, more brittle texture and may crack when folding.

Can I just butter the pan? A light coating on the tortilla will ensure even browning, but missing spots can lead to an uneven crust.

How small should I slice and chop the ham? Aim for thin slices (about 1/4 inch) and chop into 1/2-inch pieces for even distribution in the quesadilla.

Get ready to fall in love with quesadillas all over again

This recipe takes the humble ham and cheese quesadilla to new heights of flavor and satisfaction. With its crispy, golden exterior giving way to a melty, cheesy interior, paired with the rich, savory taste of black forest ham, you'll be hooked from the very first bite. So go ahead, indulge in this comfort Food classic, and discover why quesadillas will always be a beloved favorite.