Shrimp Melted Cheese Quesadilla

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Tender shrimp are seasoned and quickly sautéed, then layered with generous cheese inside buttery, crisp tortillas. Each quesadilla is cooked to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Fresh cilantro adds brightness, while salsa, sour cream, or guacamole round out the flavors. Quick to prepare and packed with melty, savory goodness, this shrimp and cheese quesadilla is perfect for casual meals or gatherings with friends and family.

Casey
Updated on Sun, 06 Jul 2025 00:10:12 GMT
A stack of shrimp and corn quesadillas. Pin it
A stack of shrimp and corn quesadillas. | cookingwithcasey.com

This shrimp melted cheese quesadilla is the kind of recipe that disappears off the table the minute I set it down. Golden tortillas get packed with juicy shrimp, layers of gooey cheese, and a hit of fresh cilantro. I reach for this on hectic nights when I want something fast and extra satisfying without a mountain of dishes.

The first time I made these, my youngest declared it better than our favorite takeout spot. Now I keep frozen shrimp in the freezer just for this reason.

Ingredients

  • Medium shrimp: peeled and deveined they soak up flavor fast and stay juicy
  • Olive oil: to prevent sticking and add richness go for extra-virgin if possible
  • Garlic powder: for a savory punch choose a fresh jar for aroma
  • Paprika: adds light smokiness try sweet or hot depending on your taste
  • Salt and pepper: classic flavor builders always taste and adjust
  • Butter: gives tortillas that irresistible crispy finish unsalted lets you control salt
  • Flour tortillas: large size holds the fillings best look for flexible not dry
  • Shredded cheese: cheddar Monterey Jack or a blend for that perfect melt freshly grated makes a difference
  • Fresh cilantro: optional for color and zest pick leaves that look perky
  • Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole: for serving homemade or your favorite store brand

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry this helps them brown then heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the shrimp sprinkle with garlic powder and paprika and season with salt and pepper Cook each side until the shrimp are pink and just cooked through about three minutes per side Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before chopping into bite sized pieces This distributes the shrimp evenly in every slice
Build the Quesadilla:
Heat a clean nonstick skillet over medium heat and swirl in a small amount of butter Once the butter starts to sizzle place a tortilla down on the skillet Sprinkle one half with shredded cheese layer on the chopped shrimp and add another sprinkle of cheese This double cheese method gives excellent pull Fold the tortilla over to make a half moon gently pressing down with a spatula
Crisp and Melt:
Cook the quesadilla for about three minutes per side flipping carefully when golden and crispy on the first side If the cheese is slow to melt lower the heat so the exterior does not burn Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling
Serve and Garnish:
Rest the quesadillas for a minute then use a sharp knife or pizza wheel to cut into wedges Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if you like Serve with generous scoops of salsa sour cream or guacamole
A sandwich with shrimp and cheese. Pin it
A sandwich with shrimp and cheese. | cookingwithcasey.com

My favorite part is the buttery crisp on the outside This is the sort of meal everyone comes back for seconds and the scent always brings my family to the kitchen before I even call them

Storage Tips

Leftover quesadillas keep well in the fridge for up to two days Wrap tightly to avoid drying out For reheating I pop them in a skillet or toaster oven to bring back the crispness Avoid microwaving too long since tortillas can get soggy

Choosing Shrimp and Cheese

Buy shrimp that are firm with no fishy scent For cheese opt for fresh blocks and grate yourself if possible As for flavors pepper jack adds a little heat Monterey Jack melts like a dream and cheddar brings in tang Choose your favorite and mix if you want more layers of taste

Pairing and Serving Ideas

These quesadillas shine on their own but they are even better with a plate of lime wedges and crunchy slaw If you want extra protein or veggies throw in cooked corn black beans or sliced avocado on the side They make a great lunch or party plate cut small for appetizers

A Quick History Bite

Quesadillas have roots in Mexican cuisine traditionally filled with cheese but over the years fillings like shrimp have added a modern spin Every time I serve these I picture bustling markets and street vendors griddling up endless varieties

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I ensure the shrimp stay juicy?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking makes them tough. Quick sautéing keeps them tender.

→ Which cheese melts best in a quesadilla?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella all melt well. A blend provides both flavor and a perfect gooey texture.

→ Can vegetables be added for extra flavor?

Absolutely! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños complement the shrimp and cheese beautifully.

→ What are the best toppings to serve?

Classic choices include salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges add brightness.

→ How do I achieve a crispy tortilla?

Butter the skillet lightly and cook over medium heat until the tortilla turns golden and crisp on both sides.

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, just warm them with seasonings before assembling to keep the flavors vibrant.

Shrimp Melted Cheese Quesadilla

Golden tortillas filled with shrimp and melty cheese, served hot with fresh toppings for a savory twist.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 4 Servings (4 large quesadillas)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Seafood

01 450g medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Spices and Seasonings

02 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 1 teaspoon paprika
04 Salt, to taste
05 Black pepper, to taste

→ Oils and Fats

06 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 2 tablespoons butter

→ Tortillas and Bread

08 4 large flour tortillas

→ Cheese

09 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend)

→ Herbs and Garnishes

10 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

→ Accompaniments

11 Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for serving

Instructions

Step 01

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and roughly chop the shrimp.

Step 02

Wipe out the skillet and place over medium heat. Melt a portion of the butter, then set one tortilla onto the skillet. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla. Top with a generous portion of chopped shrimp, add an additional layer of cheese, and fold tortilla over to form a half-moon.

Step 03

Cook folded quesadilla for 2–3 minutes on each side, adding more butter as needed, until golden and cheese is fully melted. Repeat steps with remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 04

Slice quesadillas into wedges. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Notes

  1. Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to enhance flavor and texture.
  2. For optimal melting and taste, combine cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
  3. Add fresh lime wedges to plates for a bright, zesty finish.

Tools You'll Need

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp), dairy, and gluten.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 430
  • Total Fat: 22 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 31 g
  • Protein: 28 g