Blooming Quesadilla Ring
The Blooming Quesadilla Ring is a show-stopping appetizer that combines cheesy, savory goodness with vibrant Tex-Mex flavors.
Perfect for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings, this recipe features layers of tortillas stuffed with a delicious blend of chicken, vegetables, and spices, all baked to golden perfection.
Served with your favorite dip in the center, it’s a fun and interactive dish that’s sure to impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love the Blooming Quesadilla Ring because it’s a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as fun to eat as it is to serve.
The crispy tortillas, gooey cheese, and savory chicken filling deliver a perfect blend of textures and bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Its visually stunning presentation makes it a centerpiece for any gathering, while the versatility to pair with various dips lets everyone customize their experience.
It’s a delicious and interactive way to bring people together!
Key Ingredients:
Shredded Chicken: Provides a hearty, protein-packed filling with a tender texture.
Taco Sauce: Adds bold, zesty flavors to complement the other ingredients.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheeses: Create a creamy, melty, and rich cheese layer for irresistible bites.
Taco-size Tortillas: The base for the cones, ensuring a crispy and deliciously crunchy exterior.
Fresh Veggies (Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Jalapeño): Add color, crunch, and a hint of spice for a balanced flavor profile.
Blooming Quesadilla Ring
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeño, chopped
1 cup taco sauce
20 taco-size tortillas
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 375˚F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Mix Filling: Combine the chicken, onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and taco sauce in a large bowl, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Prepare Tortillas: Cut each tortilla in half. Add roughly 2 tablespoons each of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and the chicken mixture to the center of each tortilla half.
Shape Cones: Roll the tortillas into cone shapes, starting at the cut edge, making sure the filling remains inside.
Arrange on Sheet: Place a wide jar or glass in the center of the baking sheet. Form a ring around the jar with approximately 13 tortilla cones, ensuring the points face inward. Sprinkle a layer of both cheeses over the cones. Repeat the process with the remaining tortilla cones, creating two more layers, and finish with a generous sprinkling of cheese on top.
Bake: Remove the jar from the middle and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla edges are crispy.
Serve: Carefully transfer the quesadilla ring to a serving plate. Fill the center with your favorite dip and add your desired garnishes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes:
Tortilla Tip: Use fresh tortillas to ensure they are pliable and easy to roll without cracking. Warm them slightly if needed.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding or omitting jalapeños or swapping for milder peppers like poblano.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar and Monterey Jack work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
Layer Evenly: When forming the cone ring, ensure the points touch for a stable structure and even cooking.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with dips like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or queso for added flavor.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the cones in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for a fresh and crispy result.
Garnish Ideas: Top the dip with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions for a vibrant presentation.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 20 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 230 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 16g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 420mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadilla cones ahead of time and refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap.
When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and proceed as instructed.
Keep in mind that baking time may need to be slightly increased if starting from cold.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute or mix in cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby for a different flavor.
Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best results.
What can I use as a dipping sauce?
Popular options include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, queso, or even a spicy ranch dressing.
Feel free to use your favorite dip to complement the quesadilla ring.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, use additional jalapeños, sprinkle in cayenne pepper, or choose a spicier taco sauce.
You can also include hot sauce in the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
Can I use a different meat or make it vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap shredded chicken for cooked ground beef, pulled pork, or shredded turkey.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
Ensure the filling mixture is flavorful to maintain the dish’s appeal.
How do I ensure the tortillas stay rolled into cones?
Make sure not to overfill the tortillas.
Adding just the right amount of filling (about 2 tablespoons) helps them roll easily without spilling.
If needed, secure the cones with toothpicks while assembling them on the baking sheet.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas work well for this recipe as they are more pliable and easier to roll.
However, they may take slightly longer to crisp up in the oven compared to corn tortillas.
How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy tortillas, pat the chicken mixture dry if it has excess moisture, and avoid using a watery taco sauce.
Baking the quesadilla ring on parchment paper also helps keep the tortillas crisp.
Can I bake this in a different shape?
Yes, if you don’t want a ring, you can arrange the cones in other shapes, such as a wreath, a single-layer spiral, or even line them up in rows.
The baking time may vary slightly depending on the arrangement.
How do I keep the ring intact when transferring it to a serving platter?
To transfer the quesadilla ring without it falling apart, carefully slide the parchment paper onto the serving platter.
Alternatively, use a large flat spatula to lift and place sections of the ring one at a time. Be gentle to keep the structure intact.