Pizza Quesadillas are a quick and easy fusion of two beloved comfort foods, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe combines the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza with the crispy, handheld convenience of quesadillas.
Flour tortillas provide a soft yet crisp base that holds everything together. Choose large ones for maximum filling capacity. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey, stretchy texture we all love in pizza. Marinara sauce brings the classic pizza flavor and helps bind the fillings. Pepperoni adds a savory, spicy punch, but feel free to swap it for your favorite pizza topping. Olive oil is used to crisp up the tortillas to a golden perfection. Italian seasoning and garlic powder enhance the overall flavor, while red pepper flakes add a subtle heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Pair these Pizza Quesadillas with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. They're also great with a side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup for a heartier meal.
Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread 1/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly over each tortilla, ensuring an even layer so every bite is flavorful. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each tortilla — this helps glue everything together. Arrange six slices of pepperoni on one half of each tortilla, then fold them in half, pressing gently to seal them. This step is crucial to prevent fillings from spilling out.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the folded tortillas in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. You're looking for a golden brown crust and melted cheese. Remove them from the skillet and let them cool for a minute or so to make slicing easier. Cut into wedges and serve warm. These are delightful on their own, but you can offer extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.