Qdoba Shrimp Quesadilla Recipe – Culinary Chase
Before we dive into the mouthwatering experience of the QDOBA shrimp quesadilla, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it. Pairing can elevate any meal, and the shrimp quesadilla is no exception.
Imagine enjoying a quesadilla packed with flavor, alongside a refreshing drink, crispy chips, or a zesty salsa.
Some great accompaniments include crispy tortilla chips, which provide the perfect crunch to balance the softness of the quesadilla; chunky guacamole, made with fresh avocados, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt, adding creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp filling; fresh salsa
Whether it’s a classic pico de gallo or a fruity mango salsa, which brings brightness to your plate and enhances the flavors of the shrimp; and Mexican street corn salad, a refreshing dish made with corn, cheese, and a spicy dressing that complements the richness of the quesadilla.
With these tasty side dishes in mind, let’s introduce the star of the show: the QDOBA shrimp quesadilla.
When I first stumbled upon the QDOBA shrimp quesadilla, it felt like a delicious revelation. The combination of spices, the freshness of the shrimp, and that melting cheese?
It was nothing short of fantastic! Shrimp in a quesadilla might seem like a simple idea, but indulge me for a moment as we explore why this particular dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation.
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What is QDOBA Shrimp Quesadilla?
The QDOBA shrimp quesadilla is a delightful Mexican-inspired dish. It features succulent shrimp seasoned with spices, enveloped in a tortilla with melted cheese, and cooked until crispy.
This quesadilla brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it a favorite at home and in restaurants alike.
Why This Recipe Works?
Here are four reasons why this shrimp quesadilla stands out:
- Bold Flavors: The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and jalapeños creates a vibrant taste that makes every bite exhilarating. These spices don’t hold back; they truly enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With minimal prep and cooking time, it fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are flexible. You can tweak them based on what’s available in your pantry. Shrimp lovers will enjoy the ease of being able to make this recipe their own.
- Crispy, Cheesy Goodness: The perfect blend of oozing Oaxaca cheese and a crisp tortilla creates a delicious contrast. It’s that satisfying crunch paired with a cheesy melt that makes this quesadilla pure comfort food.
Now that we’ve established its appeal, let’s gather our ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This QDOBA Shrimp Quesadilla
To whip up these delightfully crispy quesadillas, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil, or as needed
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 6 large whole wheat tortillas
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, finely chopped and seeds removed
- 1 lime, freshly squeezed for juice
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
How To Make These?
Let’s break this down into simple steps so we can easily get to the good part: eating!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you’ll need. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño. Don’t forget to rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. Keeping everything prepped makes the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Toss in the jalapeño for an extra kick about halfway through.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next up, move those sautéed veggies to the side. In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Drizzle olive oil over them, and sprinkle with sea salt, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and curl up. Don’t forget to squeeze in some lime juice!
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Now comes the fun part. Take a tortilla and spread some of the shrimp and veggie mixture on one half. Top with a generous handful of Oaxaca cheese, then fold the tortilla over. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook on each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted. You can press down slightly for even cooking!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once golden, transfer the quesadillas to a cutting board and slice them into triangles. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp make all the difference in flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thoroughly thaw them in advance.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Oaxaca is excellent, but feel free to use a mixture of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making multiple quesadillas, work in batches. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than crisp up.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili flakes to suit your heat preference. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Add Extra Fillings: Feel free to sneak in other ingredients such as black beans, diced tomatoes, or corn for added texture and taste.
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you end up with leftover quesadillas (unlikely, but it can happen), place them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. To reheat, use a skillet for that crispy texture again. Microwaving is quick, but it won’t give you that crunch.
Recommended Side Dishes for QDOBA Shrimp Quesadilla
Side dishes can kick your meal up a notch. Here are four tasty options:
- Mexican Rice: Seasoned rice infused with lime and cilantro complements the quesadilla perfectly, creating a harmonious plate full of flavor.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans can provide a wonderful counterpoint to the quesadilla. They also add fiber to your meal!
- Corn Salsa: A zesty corn salsa brings a burst of sweetness. Made with fresh corn, cilantro, lime juice, and diced tomatoes, it’s a refreshing contrast.
- Chili Lime Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a lime dressing adds brightness and a crispy texture. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some extra veggies.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
If you’re missing some ingredients, here are some great substitutions:
- Tortillas: Don’t have whole wheat tortillas? Corn tortillas work well, or try using a low-carb option if that fits your dietary needs.
- Oaxaca Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can create a similar melt factor and flavor profile.
- Medium Shrimp: If shrimp aren’t available, chicken breast or tofu can make excellent protein alternatives.
- Avocado Oil: Olive oil can easily replace avocado oil in this recipe without losing flavor.
Qdoba Shrimp Quesadilla Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil or as needed
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 6 large whole wheat tortillas
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper finely chopped and seeds removed
- 1 lime freshly squeezed for juice
- 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese divided
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Let’s break this down into simple steps so we can easily get to the good part: eating!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by gathering everything you’ll need. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño. Don’t forget to rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. Keeping everything prepped makes the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Toss in the jalapeño for an extra kick about halfway through.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Next up, move those sautéed veggies to the side. In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Drizzle olive oil over them, and sprinkle with sea salt, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and curl up. Don’t forget to squeeze in some lime juice!
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Now comes the fun part. Take a tortilla and spread some of the shrimp and veggie mixture on one half. Top with a generous handful of Oaxaca cheese, then fold the tortilla over. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook on each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted. You can press down slightly for even cooking!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Once golden, transfer the quesadillas to a cutting board and slice them into triangles. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp make all the difference in flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thoroughly thaw them in advance.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Oaxaca is excellent, but feel free to use a mixture of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making multiple quesadillas, work in batches. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than crisp up.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili flakes to suit your heat preference. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Add Extra Fillings: Feel free to sneak in other ingredients such as black beans, diced tomatoes, or corn for added texture and taste.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just ensure they are thawed completely for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini for a delicious vegetarian twist.
What other spices can I add?
You could consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas to make an entirely gluten-free version of the dish.
What dip pairs well with these quesadillas?
Sour cream or a creamy chipotle sauce makes a great dip. These dips enhance the flavors and add an extra layer of creaminess.
Conclusion
The QDOBA shrimp quesadilla is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of cooking. Whether you are making this for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or simply indulging yourself, it’s a recipe that delivers satisfaction in every bite.
With all the fresh ingredients and customizable options, this quesadilla allows you to have fun in the kitchen while enjoying a meal that feels indulgent yet doesn’t compromise on health.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients, fire up that skillet, and let’s make some magic. Your taste buds will thank you!