Andy Montoya
Quesadillas are a traditional Mexican dish that can be made with a variety of cheeses. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese tends to melt better and creates the ideal gooey, melty texture that a quesadilla should have. For a more authentic Mexican quesadilla, opt for Mexican cheeses such as Oaxaca (or Quesillo), Chihuahua, Asadero, or Queso Fresco. However, if you're looking for something more widely available, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, and Cheddar are also popular choices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, Oaxaca (Quesillo), Chihuahua, Asadero, Queso Blanco, Queso Fresco, Adobera, Cotija, Colby Jack, Colby, Manchego, Queso Quesadilla, Mexican Cheese Blend, Goat Cheese |
| Tortilla type | Flour, Corn, Spinach, Almond Flour, Cassava Flour, Quinoa Flour, Low-Carb Wraps |
| Additions | Chicken, Peppers, Steak, Ham, Beans, Mushrooms, Onions, Spinach, Corn, Tomatoes, Olives, Sour Cream, Guacamole, Salsa, Pico de Gallo, Avocado Crema, Black Beans, Pinto Beans, Cilantro Lime Crema, Salad, Mexican Rice, Scrambled Eggs, Chorizo, Bacon, Black-Eyed Peas, Mushrooms, Bell Peppers, Jalapenos, Beef, Shrimp, Roasted Vegetables, Taco Meat, Ground Beef, Sirloin Steak, Pepperoni |
What You'll Learn
Monterey Jack
For the best melt, it is recommended to grate your own Monterey Jack, rather than buying it pre-grated.
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Cheddar
When making a quesadilla, it is important to use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-grated cheese, as this will ensure the cheese melts well and creates the desired gooey, crispy texture. Cheddar is a great melting cheese, and its sharpness can add a nice kick to the quesadilla.
In addition to the cheese, quesadillas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat and vegetables. Some popular choices include chicken, beef, shrimp, roasted vegetables, black beans, corn, and fresh herbs.
When preparing a quesadilla, it is also important to use a high-quality tortilla, such as a flour tortilla, which is more durable and can hold more fillings. Corn tortillas are a more traditional choice and add a delightful crunch, but they may not hold as much filling.
Overall, cheddar is an excellent choice for quesadillas due to its sharp flavour and melting properties. It can be mixed with other cheeses or used on its own to create a delicious, gooey, and crispy quesadilla.
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Mozzarella
When selecting mozzarella for your quesadilla, opt for a block of cheese and shred it yourself at home. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly. Freshly grated mozzarella will give you the creamiest, stretchiest texture.
For the best results, pair mozzarella with other cheeses that melt well, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or traditional Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca, Asadero, or Chihuahua.
To make your quesadilla, start by buttering a tortilla and placing it in a hot skillet. Shower the tortilla with shredded cheese, then fold it in half to enclose the filling. Cook until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is lusciously melted.
Serve your mozzarella quesadilla with sides like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo for a true Mexican feast.
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Asadero
When making a quesadilla with Asadero, it is best to shred the cheese yourself from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly and achieving the desired gooey consistency. Freshly grated Asadero will melt beautifully and create a creamy, savoury flavour that complements the other ingredients in a quesadilla.
In addition to its flavour and texture, Asadero is also a visually appealing cheese. It has a white to pale yellow colour that can add a nice contrast to the other ingredients in a quesadilla. The cheese also has a semi-soft texture, making it easy to shred and work with.
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Oaxaca
When making a quesadilla, it's important to use a cheese that melts well. This is why Monterey Jack, cheddar, and mozzarella are also popular choices. However, for a more authentic Mexican flavour, Oaxaca is a great choice.
For the best melt, it is recommended to grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking preservatives.
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Frequently asked questions
Any cheese that melts well can be used for quesadillas. Popular choices include Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mozzarella. For a more authentic Mexican flavour, you can use a Mexican cheese blend, such as Asadero, Oaxaca, or Queso Quesadilla.
The best cheese for quesadillas is one that melts well and complements the other ingredients. Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Colby Jack are great choices. For a more authentic Mexican flavour, try Asadero, Queso Quesadilla, or Queso de Bola.
Queso Fresco, a mild, crumbly white cheese, is often used in quesadillas.
Many Mexican restaurants use a blend of Mexican cheeses, often including Queso Quesadilla, a creamy, smooth-melting cheese with a mild flavour.
If you prefer to grate your own cheese, choose a block of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Colby Jack. These cheeses have great melting properties.
