Bushra Griffith
A Mexican cheese crisp, also known as an Arizona cheese crisp or Sonoran Quesadilla, is a popular Mexican-style dish made with a flour tortilla and layered with melted cheese. This crispy dish is often served with dips such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. The calorie count of a Mexican cheese crisp varies depending on the ingredients and preparation methods, but on average, it can range from around 80 calories to 554 calories. The higher end of the range likely includes various toppings and dips that contribute to the overall calorie count.
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What You'll Learn
Calories in Mexican cheese vary
The calorie count of Mexican cheese crisps varies depending on the ingredients used and the method of preparation. A popular recipe for this dish includes a flour tortilla layered with melted cheese, which is then baked. The type of cheese used can vary, with options such as Colby Jack, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Pepper Jack.
The calorie count for a Mexican cheese crisp can be estimated at around 554 kcal, according to one source. However, this may differ based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. For example, the type of tortilla, the amount and type of cheese, and any additional toppings or dips will all impact the overall calorie count.
Some common dips served with Mexican cheese crisps include salsa, guacamole, bean dip, chipotle ranch, and avocado cream sauce. These dips can add extra calories and nutritional value to the dish. It's important to note that the calorie count of these dips can vary significantly depending on their ingredients and preparation methods.
In contrast, Azteca Queso Fresco Mexican Crumbling Cheese is mentioned as containing 80 calories. This highlights the variation in calorie content among different types of Mexican cheeses.
When considering the nutritional value of Mexican cheese crisps, it's worth noting that they can provide a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, they may also be high in fat, saturated fat, and sodium, depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods. As with any food, it is important to consume Mexican cheese crisps in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
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Calorie count depends on cheese type
The calorie count of a Mexican cheese crisp depends on the type of cheese used. For example, a cheese crisp made with Azteca Queso Fresco Mexican Crumbling Cheese will contribute about 80 calories. On the other hand, a cheese crisp made with Colby Jack cheese will have a different calorie content. Other popular cheese options for Mexican cheese crisps include Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Pepper Jack.
The calorie count of a Mexican cheese crisp will also depend on the quantity of cheese used. A typical recipe for a cheese crisp calls for 1.5 cups of shredded cheese. However, some people may use more or less cheese depending on their preference.
In addition to the type and quantity of cheese, the other ingredients used in a Mexican cheese crisp can also affect the calorie count. Some recipes include additional ingredients such as butter, sour cream, or various types of dips and seasonings.
For example, a cheese crisp can be served with dips like salsa, guacamole, bean dip, chipotle ranch, or avocado cream sauce. It can also be topped with vegetables such as fresh corn, sliced olives, roasted red peppers, sliced jalapenos, avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce. Some people also like to add protein to their cheese crisp, such as grilled and thinly sliced chicken or steak.
The calorie count of a Mexican cheese crisp can also depend on the cooking method. A typical recipe involves baking the tortilla and cheese in the oven until toasted and melted, respectively. However, some people may prefer to pan-fry their cheese crisp, which can affect the calorie content.
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Calories in a cheese crisp
A cheese crisp, also known as a Sonoran Quesadilla, is a popular Mexican-style dish, especially in Arizona and the surrounding areas. It is made using a flour tortilla, layered with shredded cheese, and baked until crisp.
The calorie count of a cheese crisp varies depending on the type of cheese and tortilla used, as well as the portion size. For example, a cheese crisp made with Colby Jack cheese and a flour tortilla will have a different calorie count than one made with Oaxaca cheese and a gluten-free tortilla.
On average, a single cheese crisp can range from around 550 to 800 calories. For instance, a cheese crisp recipe from Lil' Luna has approximately 554 calories. This calorie count takes into account the cheese, tortilla, and any additional toppings or dips that may be included.
It's important to note that the calorie count can vary significantly depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. For example, a smaller, individually sized cheese crisp may have fewer calories, while a larger, family-sized portion could have a higher calorie count. Additionally, the type of cheese used can also make a difference, as some cheeses are more calorie-dense than others.
When considering the calorie content of a cheese crisp, it's worth remembering that it is a dish typically enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, and not usually as a full meal. As such, it can be a indulgent treat, but it's important to practice portion control and balance it with other nutritious food choices.
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Cheese crisp recipe
A cheese crisp, also known as a Sonoran Quesadilla, is a popular Mexican-style dish in Arizona and the surrounding areas. It is a crunchy, open-faced quesadilla that is perfect for dipping into salsa or guacamole.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas
- Butter
- Cheese (Colby Jack, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Parmesan, Asiago, or aged Mozzarella)
- Optional toppings: green chiles, fresh corn, sliced olives, roasted red peppers, sliced jalapeno, avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, green onion, grilled chicken or steak, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, or black pepper
- Dipping sauces: salsa, guacamole, bean dip, chipotle ranch, or avocado cream sauce
Recipe
Preheat your oven to 350°F with a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Butter each tortilla, making sure to cover the entire surface, and place them on the baking sheet. Bake for about 5-10 minutes, or until the tortillas are lightly toasted. Remove the tortillas from the oven and sprinkle with your desired cheese, leaving about 1/2 inch from the edges. You can also add your desired toppings at this point. Return the tortillas to the oven and bake for an additional 2-7 minutes, or until all of the cheese has melted.
Alternatively, you can make cheese crisps in a skillet or air fryer, or on a stove-top without butter. You can also make keto cheese crisps by simply melting shredded cheese in a non-stick frying pan and letting it crisp up.
A single cheese crisp typically contains around 554 calories, with variations depending on the type of cheese and toppings used.
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Cheese crisp reheating instructions
A cheese crisp is a crunchy open-face quesadilla that is a popular Mexican-style dish, especially in Arizona. It is made using shredded cheese, such as Colby Jack, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Pepper Jack, and is served with dips and toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sliced olives, roasted red peppers, sliced jalapeno, and avocado.
A Mexican cheese crisp has approximately 554 calories, with 3g of carbohydrates, 20g of protein, and 52g of fat.
Reheating Instructions:
If you have any leftover cheese crisps, you can reheat them in the oven or the microwave. Here are the steps to reheat your cheese crisps:
- Place the cheese crisp on a cooling rack and then place the rack onto a baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the cheese crisp until it is warm and crisp.
You can also use a microwave to reheat the cheese crisp, but it may not retain its crispiness. Here are the steps to reheat your cheese crisp in a microwave:
- Cut a piece of parchment paper the size of your microwave's turntable and place it on the turntable.
- Place slightly rounded tablespoonfuls of shredded cheese on the parchment, leaving a couple of inches of space between them.
- Microwave the cheese until it becomes crispy.
- After each batch, remove the crisps to a paper towel and wipe off the parchment with another paper towel to absorb the excess fat.
Enjoy your warm and crispy cheese crisps!
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Frequently asked questions
A Mexican cheese crisp typically contains around 554 calories.
A Mexican cheese crisp is a crispy flour tortilla layered with melted cheese and baked. It is a popular Mexican-style dish, especially in Arizona, and is often served as an appetizer or snack.
Common cheeses used in Mexican cheese crisps include Colby Jack, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Pepper Jack.
