Description: The Blooming Quesadilla Ring is a fun and visually impressive dish that’s perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. This savory creation features crispy tortilla cones filled with a delicious blend of shredded chicken, cheese, and taco sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Serve it with your favorite dip in the center for a complete and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for those looking to impress guests with a unique and delicious appetizer. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or casual family meals where you want to serve something that’s both tasty and visually striking.
Why It’s Great
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The blooming ring shape makes a stunning centerpiece for any table.
- Customizable: Fill the tortillas with your favorite ingredients and adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Easy to Serve: The ring shape makes it easy to slice and serve, with the option to place a dip in the center for added flavor.
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
How to Make Blooming Quesadilla Ring
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, chopped onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and taco sauce. Mix well and set aside.
- Assemble Cones: Cut each tortilla in half. Evenly distribute about 2 tablespoons each of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and the chicken mixture onto each tortilla half. Roll each tortilla half into a cone, starting from the cut edge and making sure the ingredients stay inside.
- Form the Ring: Place a wide-mouth jar or glass in the center of the baking sheet. Arrange about 13 tortilla cones around the jar, with the points facing inward and touching the jar. Sprinkle some cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over this layer. Repeat with the remaining cones to create 2 more layers, finishing with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Carefully remove the jar from the center of the ring. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the tortillas are crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the blooming quesadilla ring to a serving platter. Place your dip of choice in the center and garnish as desired. Serve immediately.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large bowl
- Wide-mouth jar or glass
- Oven mitts
Storage
Leftover quesadilla ring can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQ
1. Can I use different fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients like cooked ground beef, beans, or vegetables.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the quesadilla ring ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
3. What dips go well with this?
Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a cheese dip all pair wonderfully with this quesadilla ring.
Conclusion
The Blooming Quesadilla Ring is a delicious and eye-catching appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its crispy tortilla cones and flavorful filling, it’s both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Serve it with your favorite dip and watch as it disappears in no time!
