Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares

Name: Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack); 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing; Sour cream and salsa for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love hosting friends for the Super Bowl, and one of my go-to appetizers is these Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares. They are not only delicious but also super easy to make in large batches. Combining colorful vegetables, creamy cheese, and a perfectly crispy tortilla base results in a dish that's always a hit. Whether served with salsa or guacamole, these quesadilla squares are sure to keep everyone satisfied throughout the game. Plus, they take just minutes to prep and are baked to golden perfection, making them a crowd-pleaser without the hassle.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:31:08.519Z

When I first made these Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares for a game night, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. To my delight, they disappeared within minutes! The combination of sautéed bell peppers, spinach, and a blend of cheeses made for an irresistibly tasty snack. What surprised me most was how well the tortillas crisped up in the oven, making each bite satisfying and crunchy.

A key tip I learned is to let the filling cool slightly before assembling. This prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy and ensures that each square maintains its crunch until served. Trust me, these are perfect for any gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with colorful vegetables that make each bite flavorful
Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside for perfect texture
Great for sharing, keeping everyone engaged during the game

      

Baking Techniques for Perfect Quesadilla Squares

For achieving those crispy edges on your quesadilla squares, preheating your oven is crucial. Set it at 400°F (200°C) to ensure that the tortillas crisp up beautifully without burning. I recommend lining your baking sheet with parchment paper; not only does it prevent sticking, but it also facilitates a cleaner removal once the quesadillas are done. Keep an eye on them midway through baking to ensure they aren't browning too quickly; you can turn the pan if needed for even cooking.

Timing is key in the baking process. Aim for a baking time of about 20 minutes, but start checking at the 15-minute mark. You're looking for a golden brown color on the edges and melted cheese oozing out. If you notice they’re browning unevenly or too fast, lowering the oven temperature slightly can help achieve that perfect texture without risk of burning.

Ingredient Insights for Flavor Enhancement

Using a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack not only boosts flavor but also adds different melting characteristics. Cheddar gives a sharpness, while Monterey Jack provides that creamy gooeyness we all love in quesadillas. If you want a twist, try adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of Mexican queso for a unique flavor profile. Keep in mind that the quality of cheese will significantly affect the final result, so choose fresh, good-quality options.

Incorporating spices such as cumin and chili powder is essential for imparting depth to the filling. Cumin brings an earthy tone, while chili powder can elevate the spice level. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount or consider substituting with smoked paprika. Fresh herbs, like cilantro, can be added just before serving to introduce a fresh burst of flavor. These adjustments allow you to customize the quesadillas to your taste.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need for these delicious quesadilla squares:

Ingredients

4 large flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Sour cream and salsa for serving

Gather all the ingredients to get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the perfect quesadilla squares:

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, sautéing until softened. Stir in the chopped spinach, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook until the spinach has wilted. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Assemble the Quesadillas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, place one tortilla and sprinkle a layer of cheese over it. Add a generous amount of the vegetable filling and top with more cheese.

Place another tortilla on top and repeat the process for the remaining ingredients.

Bake and Serve

Bake the quesadillas in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve with sour cream and salsa for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious quesadilla squares!

Pro Tips

You can customize the filling with your favorite veggies or add beans for extra protein. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated easily in the oven.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

These Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares can easily be prepared ahead of time, making them a fantastic choice for party prep. You can assemble the quesadillas in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on the day of your event. Just remember to let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as this helps with even cooking.

If you find yourself with leftovers, these quesadilla squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, I suggest using the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will revive the crispiness. Microwave reheating can make them soggy, so avoid that when possible.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to get creative with the vegetable filling! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn can be fantastic additions that complement the original flavors well. For a heartier option, add black beans or grilled chicken. If you're catering to dietary restrictions, swap in gluten-free tortillas and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain the deliciousness without compromising taste.

For serving, pair the quesadilla squares with a variety of dips. Homemade guacamole with lime and cilantro can add a refreshing element, while a zesty salsa verde can provide a spicy contrast. For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling some chipotle crema over the top before serving, which adds the right amount of creaminess with a smoky flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these quesadilla squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake them the day you plan to serve.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add cooked chicken, mushrooms, or corn. The possibilities are endless!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the quesadilla squares before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.