Shrimp Melted Cheese Quesadilla – The Ultimate Seafood Comfort Food

If you love cheesy, crispy, and flavor-packed meals, this Shrimp Melted Cheese Quesadilla will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection, combined with gooey melted cheese, all sandwiched between golden, crispy tortillas – it’s the perfect mix of comfort food and gourmet flavor.

This easy recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: Juicy shrimp + melted cheese = perfection.
Versatile: Works as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients

For the Quesadilla:

1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 large flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
1 small onion, diced (optional)
1 small bell pepper, diced (optional)

For Serving:

Sour cream
Salsa
Guacamole

Preparation

Step 1: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and roughly chop.

Step 2: Prepare the Quesadilla

Place a tortilla in a clean skillet over medium heat.
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on one half.
Add chopped shrimp, onion, and bell pepper on top.
Add more cheese for extra gooeyness, then fold tortilla in half.

Step 3: Cook Until Golden

Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until tortilla is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Step 4: Serve

Slice into wedges and serve with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Quesadilla

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Cheese choice matters: Monterey Jack melts beautifully, while cheddar adds a sharp flavor.
Don’t overload: Too many fillings can make it hard to flip.
Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Nutrition (Per Serving) (approx.)

Calories: 380
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 18g

FAQ – Shrimp Melted Cheese Quesadilla

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: You can prep and refrigerate, then reheat in a skillet for best results.

Q: Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy and cheese melts.