Pork Carnitas Quesadillas

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Pork Carnitas Quesadillas are a show-stopper! They're loaded with cheese, caramelized onions, tender pork carnitas and flavor!

A plate topped with a shredded pork quesadilla, shredded lettuce and pico de gallo.

These amazing quesadillas are one of many ways you can use or repurpose Crockpot Pork Carnitas. Accented with delicious caramelized Onions 52 White and Red Onions, they're a weeknight family dinner winner!

Here are my go-to tips for executing next level delicious quesadillas!

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Use 1 10-Inch Tortilla: Flipping a folded over quesadilla is far easier than 2 stacked and filled tortillas. The ingredients stay better intact!
Fill with a Veggie: Adding veggies like sautéed Onions 52 White and Red Onions adds nutrients, color, texture, loads of flavor and satisfaction!
Control the Heat: Ensure the tortilla is getting evenly toasted as the cheese is melting and bringing the ingredients together. If needed, set a timer for flipping.
Eat them Fresh: Quesadillas are at their peak satisfaction when they come straight off the griddle or skillet. They're crispy on the outside and hot and ooey gooey in the middle!

Quesadillas are quick to make a fun way to get the family in the kitchen together. Everyone can get creative with their favorite fillings and toppings and leave the dinner table happy and satisfied!

Table of Contents

What You’ll Need

Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Recipe Card Below

Onions 52 Yellow and Red Onions
Butter
Fajita or Taco Seasoning
Lime
Crockpot Pork Carnitas or Pre-Made Shredded Pork
Tortillas
Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack Cheese
Options: Additional Toppings

Tools You’ll Need

Medium Skillet
Griddle or Large Skillet
Silicone Tongs

Why You’ll like this Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and easy way to use up your Crockpot Pork Carnitas, look no further than these amazing Pork Carnitas Quesadillas! In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these mouth-watering quesadillas that are sure to be a hit with the whole family. The addition of Onions 52 White and Red Onions gives these quesadillas an extra boost of flavor and freshness, taking them to the next level of deliciousness. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these Pork Carnitas Quesadillas are a recipe you'll want to make on repeat!

How to Make this Recipe

Melt some of the butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions, seasoning, and a squeeze of lime, and sauté 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons water and sauté another 3-5 or until tender and caramelized. Transfer to a plate.

Heat a griddle or large skillet on medium high heat. Swipe the pan with a thin layer of butter. Place a tortilla on the prepared area and on one half of the tortilla, top with ingredients in this order: ¼-1/3 cup shredded cheese, ½-3/4 cup shredded pork carnitas, ¼-1/2 cup sautéed onions, and ¼-1/3 cup more shredded cheese.

using tongs to fill a tortilla with carnitas

Fold the uncovered tortilla half over and on top of the toppings. Allow the quesadilla to cook 1-2 minutes on each side, flipping 3-4 times, until the cheese is fully melted and tortilla golden brown.
Slice in triangles and serve with your favorite toppings.

sliced quesadilla with shredded lettuce and pico de gallo

Tips and Substitutions

Choose a high-quality tortilla that is sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. Corn tortillas are traditional for quesadillas, but flour tortillas are also commonly used. Lettuce wraps can also be a low carbohydrate alternative.
Use a cheese that melts well, such as Oaxaca or Monterey Jack. Shredded cheese works best for quesadillas, as it melts quickly and evenly.
Excellent side dishes or toppings for quesadillas include:
- Perfect Guacamole
- Fresh Pico de Gallo
- Sour Cream
- Hot Sauce
- Taco Sauce
- Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
- Ronald's Epic Salsa
- Shredded Lettuce
- Queso
- Sliced Olives
- Tortilla Chips

This Homemade Fajita Seasoning is an excellent option to season the onions.

Storage

Freshly made quesadillas are ideal. I recommend storing the meat, caramelized onions, cheese and tortillas separately and then making a fresh quesadilla when you're ready for one.
If you have leftover already made quesadillas, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container up to 3-4 days.
Quesadillas can be stored in an air tight container in the freezer up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of onions?

Onions are low in calories and high in vitamins C and B6, as well as folate, potassium, and manganese. They are high in antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties, help support the immune system and can be a benefit for heart and digestive health!

What is a quesadilla?

A quesadilla is a Mexican dish made from a tortilla that is filled with cheese and other ingredients, then folded over and toasted or fried until the cheese is melted.

What kind of cheese is used in quesadillas?

The most commonly used cheese in quesadillas is a Mexican cheese called Oaxaca or Quesillo, but other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and even mozzarella can also be used.

What other ingredients can be used in quesadillas?

Quesadillas can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, beef, vegetables, beans, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.

Are quesadillas healthy?

It depends on the ingredients used. Quesadillas can be healthy if made with whole wheat tortillas, lean protein, and lots of vegetables. However, if made with white flour tortillas, lots of cheese and fatty meats, they can be high in calories and fat.

Are quesadillas gluten free?

They can be if made with gluten free tortillas.

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