Turkey Quesadilla Panini Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Turkey Quesadilla Panini
- Super Quick & Easy – This recipe comes together in under five minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a fast meal. No complicated steps or prep work required!
- Crispy & Cheesy – The panini press creates a golden-brown, crispy tortilla while melting the cheese to gooey perfection inside. Every bite is filled with deliciously warm, melted cheese and turkey.
- Minimal Ingredients – You only need three simple ingredients: tortilla, turkey, and cheese. It’s a great way to use up deli turkey and make something satisfying with pantry staples.
- Customizable – Add your favorite extras like tomatoes, avocado, or spinach to make it your own. Swap out the turkey for ham, chicken, or even a vegetarian option!
- Great for Any Meal – Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this panini is always a good choice. Serve it with soup, salad, or just enjoy it on its own!
Turkey Quesadilla Panini Recipe
Cooking time: 1 minute
Ingredients
- 1 flour tortilla – A soft and flexible tortilla that crisps up beautifully in the panini press.
- 2 deli turkey slices – Adds a savory, protein-packed filling that pairs perfectly with melted cheese.
- A handful of shredded cheese – Use your favorite type of cheese for melty, gooey goodness—cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend all work great!
For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Turkey Quesadilla Panini
- Panini Press – Cooks the quesadilla evenly while creating those signature grill marks.
- Measuring Cups (if needed) – Useful for measuring the cheese if you prefer precise amounts.
- Spatula – Helps to safely remove the hot quesadilla from the panini press.
Instructions How To Make Panini
- Preheat the panini press.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of a tortilla.
- Put the turkey slices on top of a shredded cheese.
- Put the remaining shredded cheese on top of the turkey.
- Fold the tortilla in half.
- Put the folded tortilla in a panini press and close it.
- Cook the tortilla in the panini press for 30 seconds.
Here’s the picture of making a turkey quesadilla panini, before the quesadilla is folded and cooked:
I love paninis – they give you countless hot lunch possibilities without any effort. If you don’t own a panini press, get one – you won’t regret it! See my page on how to choose best panini press to find the option that’s right for you. Also, check out how to clean a panini press – it’s surprisingly easy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Creamy Salsa Dip with Sour Cream, or Chunky Avocado Guacamole with Tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Pair with a warm bowl of soup, like Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup, for a comforting meal.
- Add a fresh Crispy Kale and Apple Salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Cut into smaller wedges and serve as an appetizer or party snack with dipping sauce like Creamy Cottage Cheese Ranch.
- Enjoy with a side of crispy Air Fryer Crinkle Cut Fries or Homemade Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries for a heartier meal.
Tips For Success
- Use a Fresh, Soft Tortilla – A fresh tortilla will fold easily and crisp up nicely without breaking. If your tortilla is stiff, warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before assembling.
- Don’t Overfill – Too much cheese or turkey can make the quesadilla difficult to close and may cause the filling to spill out while cooking. A balanced amount ensures even melting and a crispy exterior.
- Press Gently – When closing the panini press, avoid pressing down too hard. Light pressure is enough to create grill marks while keeping the filling intact.
- Experiment with Different Cheeses – Try a mix of cheeses for extra flavor! A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a perfect balance of meltiness and taste.
- Make It Extra Crispy – If you love extra crunch, lightly brush the outside of the tortilla with butter or olive oil before placing it in the panini press. This adds a delicious golden-brown crispiness.
- Watch the Cooking Time – Since the tortilla is thin, it cooks very quickly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—30 to 45 seconds should be enough.
- Let It Cool Before Slicing – Allow the panini to cool for a minute before cutting. This helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn’t ooze out too much when sliced.
- Try Different Fillings – Add extras like spinach, tomatoes, or avocado to customize your panini. You can also swap turkey for ham, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
- No Panini Press? No Problem! – If you don’t have a panini press, use a stovetop pan and press the quesadilla down with a spatula or a heavy skillet while it cooks. Flip halfway through for even crisping.
- Make It a Meal – Serve your quesadilla panini with soup, salad, or a side of fruit for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Variations And Substitutions
- Cheese Variations – While shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend works well, you can switch it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick, provolone for a milder taste, or smoked gouda for a rich, smoky flavor.
- Different Proteins – Swap the turkey for ham, grilled chicken, or even roast beef for a different twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or grilled tofu.
- Add Some Greens – For a fresh flavor boost, add spinach, arugula, or thinly sliced lettuce before folding the tortilla. These greens add texture and extra nutrients.
- Make It Spicy – Love heat? Add sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the quesadilla before grilling.
- Try a Whole Wheat Tortilla – For a healthier option, use whole wheat or spinach tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas. They provide extra fiber and nutrients while keeping the same delicious crunch.
- Different Cooking Method – No panini press? Use a stovetop skillet or griddle and press down with a spatula. Flip once for an even golden-brown finish.
- Low-Carb Option – Swap the tortilla for low-carb wraps or make a cheese crisp quesadilla by melting cheese in a non-stick pan, then adding the turkey and folding it over.
- Add More Flavor – Spread a thin layer of mustard, pesto, or chipotle mayo inside the tortilla before adding the turkey and cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make It Breakfast-Friendly – Add scrambled eggs and bacon for a morning twist on this panini. Serve with a side of salsa for dipping.
- Sweet & Savory Option – Try adding a thin spread of cranberry sauce or fig jam inside the panini for a sweet and savory combination, especially around the holidays.
Storage And Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, let the quesadilla panini cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating in the Panini Press: Place the panini back in the panini press and heat for about 1 minute until warm and crispy again.
- Reheating in a Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm the panini for 1-2 minutes per side until the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps up.
- Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, microwave the panini for 30-45 seconds, but note that the tortilla may become soft instead of crispy.
- Freezing: This panini is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or panini press for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this panini without a panini press?
Yes! If you don’t have a panini press, use a stovetop skillet or griddle. Place the quesadilla in the pan and press it down with a spatula or another heavy pan. Flip it halfway through to get both sides crispy.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Any melty cheese works well! Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and provolone are all great options. You can also mix cheeses for extra flavor.
Can I add more ingredients to this panini?
Absolutely! You can add extras like sliced tomatoes, avocado, spinach, or even a spread of mustard or pesto for more flavor.
How do I prevent the tortilla from getting soggy?
Make sure not to overfill the tortilla with too much cheese or turkey, as excess moisture can make it soggy. Also, cook it in a hot panini press to create a crisp exterior.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This panini is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat in a panini press or skillet to restore the crispiness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the cheesy, crispy texture of this panini. You can even cut it into smaller pieces for easy eating.
Other Easy Turkey Recipes
One-Pan Ground Turkey and Potatoes Skillet – Quick & Easy Dinner – This hearty one-pan meal combines tender ground turkey, crispy potatoes, and savory seasonings for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Buttered Noodles with Ground Turkey – Fast & Flavorful Meal – A simple yet delicious dish featuring buttery noodles tossed with seasoned ground turkey for a comforting and easy meal.
Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Necks – Simple & Delicious – These air-fried turkey necks turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with bold flavor in every bite.
Air Fryer Crispy Breaded Turkey Cutlets – Quick & Easy – Golden brown and crunchy on the outside, these juicy turkey cutlets cook up fast in the air fryer for a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Baked Turkey Spinach Meatballs – Healthy & Keto-Friendly – These protein-packed turkey meatballs are loaded with fresh spinach and baked to perfection for a nutritious, low-carb meal.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Tender & Juicy Every Time – This easy slow cooker recipe ensures a moist, flavorful turkey breast with minimal effort, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.
No-Baste Brown Paper Bag Roast Turkey – Perfect for Thanksgiving – This foolproof Thanksgiving turkey method locks in moisture and creates a beautifully golden, juicy bird with no basting required.
Turkey Quesadilla Panini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 flour tortilla
- 2 deli turkey slices
- A handful of shredded cheese
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Panini press
- Measuring Cups if needed for cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the panini press.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Place the turkey slices on top of the cheese.
- Add the remaining shredded cheese over the turkey.
- Fold the tortilla in half to form a half-moon shape.
- Place the folded tortilla into the panini press and close it.
- Cook for about 30 seconds or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the press, let it cool slightly, and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use any shredded cheese of your choice, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
- Add extra toppings like sliced tomatoes, spinach, or avocado for more flavor.
- No panini press? Use a regular skillet with a heavy pan on top to press the quesadilla as it cooks.
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