Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until they are tender and have released their moisture.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Prepare Tortillas: Place two tortillas on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Filling: Evenly distribute the spinach and mushroom mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the vegetables.
- Top with Tortillas: Place the remaining two tortillas on top of the cheese to form quesadillas.
Step 4: Bake the Quesadillas
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Flip and Bake Again (Optional): For extra crispiness, carefully flip the quesadillas halfway through the baking time and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Remove the quesadillas from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice them into wedges. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce.
Tips for Success
- Even Layer: Ensure the filling is spread out evenly for consistent flavor and texture in each bite.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the quesadillas to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Cheese Choice: Use a blend of cheeses for extra flavor, such as combining cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Variations
- Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, beef, or tofu for added protein.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for additional flavor and texture.
- Herb and Spice: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Baked spinach mushroom quesadillas are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the best of fresh vegetables and melted cheese in a crispy tortilla. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any meal and can be customized to suit your tastes. Serve with a variety of toppings to enhance the flavor and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!