Cheesy Egg Quesadilla – a high protein breakfast

Crafted from eggs and layered with cheese, the Cheesy Egg Quesadilla is a breakfast hero that packs a punch with about 20 grams of protein per serving. Picture waking up to the golden scent of melting cheese mingling with the freshness of salsa—talk about a morning boost! Whether you’re looking for a quick fix before work or a leisurely family breakfast, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.

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Why This Cheesy Egg Quesadilla – a High Protein Breakfast Never Fails

If you’re on a quest for a breakfast that keeps you fuller longer, look no further than this cheesy delight. Flipping a quesadilla may seem like a culinary challenge, but once you nail that perfect turn, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro. It’s a reliable option for busy mornings or lazy weekends, and it ticks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and ease. Plus, you can customize it to fit your family’s preferences—now that’s flexibility!

Ingredient Lineup

Here’s what you’ll need for your Cheesy Egg Quesadilla:

• 2 six-inch tortillas (I use Siete almond flour tortillas for a gluten-free option)
• 2 eggs
• 3 tbsp salsa of choice (feel free to get creative with your favorite brands)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more cheese, more happiness!)
• 1/4 cup shredded chicken (or any protein of your choice)
• Guacamole, salsa, or chipotle sauce for dipping
• 1/8 cup cottage cheese (adds a creamy element that’s simply divine)

Step-by-Step Method

Let’s get cooking with this easy-to-follow process:

1. Heat a 7 or 8-inch skillet over low to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the 2 eggs, 3 tbsp of salsa, and the 1/8 cup cottage cheese until well combined.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and place one of the 6-inch tortillas on top of the egg mixture (this helps set the tortilla nicely).
4. Once the eggs are almost done cooking, carefully release the eggs from the pan and flip the entire quesadilla over—this can be tricky, so take your time!
5. Sprinkle half of the 1/4 cup cheddar cheese on top of the eggs, followed by the 1/4 cup shredded chicken, then add the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
6. Place the second tortilla on top and cover the pan with a lid. Keep the heat low and allow it to cook until the cheese is melted and the bottom tortilla is golden brown.
7. Flip the quesadilla one more time to crisp the other side before removing from the pan. Serve hot with guacamole, salsa, or chipotle sauce for dipping!

Nutrition Breakdown

This Cheesy Egg Quesadilla serves one delicious breakfast that contains approximately:

• Serving size: 1 quesadilla
• Calories: 420
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 3g

Getting a healthy dose of protein is essential for starting your day off right. This meal is not just filling; it also nourishes your body with essential nutrients that provide energy and stay power.

Perfect Pairings

Serving your Cheesy Egg Quesadilla can be as simple or elaborate as you wish! I love pairing it with a fresh side of fruit—think berries or melon for a nice splash of color and sweetness. For a leisurely brunch, consider a light side salad. And if it’s a weekend feast, maybe throw in some crispy bacon or turkey sausage for extra indulgence!

How to Store It Right

To make sure your Cheesy Egg Quesadilla stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, it can be frozen for up to one month. When reheating, simply pop it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through—this helps maintain the quesadilla’s crispy texture!

Best Shortcuts

Here are a few expert tips to elevate your quesadilla game:

1. Prep Ahead: You can mix your egg and cottage cheese the night before; just cover and refrigerate for a morning shortcut.
2. Layer Smart: For a richer flavor, consider mixing cooked veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the egg mixture.
3. Crispier Tortilla: Lightly brush your tortillas with olive oil before cooking for extra crispiness and flavor.
4. Experiment with Cheese: Try a blend of cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
5. Keep It Warm: If you’re making multiple quesadillas, keep them warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Flavor Experiments

Feel free to mix things up with these delectable twists:

1. Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add sautéed apples and a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet and savory surprise.
2. Gourmet Touch: Try adding crumbled feta cheese and spinach for a Mediterranean flair.
3. Playful Flavor: Transform it into a breakfast dessert by incorporating Nutella and bananas, and serving it alongside a drizzle of maple syrup.

Learn from My Mistakes

Here’s what not to do when making your quesadilla:

1. Overcooking: Don’t let the eggs cook too long before flipping—this can cause a dry texture. Aim for slightly runny eggs before flipping.
2. Too Much Filling: Avoid overfilling your quesadilla; it makes flipping nearly impossible and can result in a messy meal.
3. Skipping the Lid: Covering the pan helps melt the cheese evenly—don’t skip this step if you want gooey results!
4. Cold Ingredients: Don’t use cold tortillas or fillings; they won’t cook properly. Let them sit at room temperature for a bit.
5. Ignoring the Heat: Cooking on high can burn the tortillas while leaving the insides cold. Keep that heat low and steady!

What to Do with Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here are a few creative ideas:

1. Breakfast Bowl: Chop the quesadilla into pieces and toss it on top of mixed greens or rice, drizzling your favorite dressing over for a unique salad.
2. Savory Egg Muffins: Blend leftover quesadilla with egg and pour into muffin tins for portable breakfast bites.
3. Quesadilla Nachos: Cut the quesadilla into bite-sized pieces, layer them on a baking sheet, sprinkle with extra cheese and toppings, and bake for nacho-style indulgence!

Curious Cooks Ask

Can I make a Cheesy Egg Quesadilla ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the fillings and assemble the quesadilla ahead of time, then store it in the fridge to cook it fresh in the morning.

What can I substitute for tortillas? Feel free to swap out traditional tortillas for lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, or use whole-grain wraps for added fiber.

Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy flavor, and you can easily customize it with their favorite veggies and proteins for a fun twist.

How can I make this dish dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese and skip the cottage cheese; artfully mashed avocado can add a creamy texture without the dairy!