How to Make the Perfect Ham and Cheese Quesadilla at Home

A ham and cheese quesadilla is one of the easiest, most satisfying meals you can make. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a comforting snack, this crispy, cheesy creation never disappoints.

But what makes a perfect ham and cheese quesadilla? The right cheese, quality ham, and proper cooking technique can take it from ordinary to restaurant-quality. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a crispy, melty, and flavourful ham and cheese quesadilla at home, along with variations and serving suggestions.

The Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Quesadilla

1. The Best Ham

Using high-quality ham makes a big difference in flavour. For the best results, opt for:

• Shredded ham – Melts seamlessly into the cheese for even flavour distribution.
• Smoked ham – Adds a deep, savoury note.
• Honey-roast ham – Gives a slight sweetness that pairs well with cheese.
• Leftover ham – A great way to use up Sunday roast leftovers.

For premium shredded ham, check out Franconian’s Shredded Ham.

2. The Right Cheese

The key to a gooey, melty quesadilla is choosing the right cheese. Some of the best options include:

• Cheddar – Sharp and tangy, adding a bold flavour.
• Mozzarella – Gives the best melt and stretch.
• Monterey Jack – A creamy, mild cheese that pairs well with ham.
• Gruyère – A nutty cheese that melts beautifully.

3. The Tortilla

• Flour tortillas – Traditional and easy to crisp up.
• Whole wheat tortillas – A healthier alternative.
• Corn tortillas – More authentic but less flexible.

4. Additional Fillings (Optional but Delicious!)

• Caramelised onions – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Dijon mustard – A tangy contrast to the cheese.
• Sliced tomatoes – Fresh and juicy.
• Jalapeños – For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Classic Ham and Cheese Quesadilla

Ingredients:

• 2 flour tortillas
• 100g shredded ham (Franconian Shredded Ham)
• 100g grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• Optional: Dijon mustard, caramelised onions, jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fillings
   • Shred the ham and grate the cheese.
   • If using caramelised onions or mustard, prepare them in advance.
2. Assemble the quesadilla
   • Place one tortilla on a flat surface.
   • Sprinkle half of the cheese over it.
   • Evenly distribute the shredded ham.
   • Add any optional toppings.
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheese and place the second tortilla on top.
3. Cook the quesadilla
   • Heat a frying pan over medium heat.
   • Add a little butter or olive oil.
   • Place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Slice and serve
   • Transfer to a cutting board and let it cool for a minute.
   • Slice into wedges and serve with dips.

The Best Dips and Sides for a Ham and Cheese Quesadilla

A great quesadilla deserves the perfect dip. Here are some popular pairings:

• Salsa – A fresh, tangy contrast.
• Guacamole – Creamy and rich.
• Sour cream – Adds a cool, tangy balance.
• Honey mustard – A sweet and spicy twist.

For sides, consider:

• A simple green salad for freshness.
• Crispy potato wedges for a hearty meal.
• Grilled vegetables to add extra flavour.

Creative Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are a few creative takes on the classic ham and cheese quesadilla:

• Breakfast Quesadilla – Add scrambled eggs and a dash of hot sauce.
• BBQ Ham Quesadilla – Swap mustard for BBQ sauce and add caramelised onions.
• Hawaiian Quesadilla – Add pineapple for a sweet and savoury combination.
• French-Inspired Quesadilla – Use gruyère cheese and add Dijon mustard.

Where to Buy Quality Ham for Your Quesadilla

For flavourful, high-quality shredded ham, visit Franconian.co.uk. Their premium ham ensures the best texture and taste for your quesadilla.

A ham and cheese quesadilla is one of the easiest and most delicious meals you can make. With the right ham, cheese, and tortilla, plus a few extra toppings, you can create a restaurant-quality quesadilla in minutes.

Looking to make the best quesadilla? Order high-quality shredded ham today and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savoury goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make a ham and cheese quesadilla without a frying pan?
Yes! You can use an oven or air fryer at 180°C for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q2: What’s the best cheese for a ham and cheese quesadilla?
Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack melt well and complement the ham’s flavour.

Q3: Can I make a quesadilla ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, store it in the fridge, and cook when needed.