Cheesy Bacon Chicken Quesadilla

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing bring a lively twist to these easy quesadillas. Cook gently in butter until crisp, then fill with melted cheese and bacon before drizzling with ranch. Serve hot, sliced into wedges, and finish with a cool topping of shredded lettuce and juicy tomato. Add rotisserie or grilled chicken for extra protein—great for using up leftovers. Kids and adults alike enjoy this quick meal, perfect for lunch, a hearty snack, or a fun weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 26 Jul 2025 17:12:32 GMT
A stack of bacon quesadilla. Save
A stack of bacon quesadilla. | lilicooks.com

Cheesy bacon quesadillas are my go-to when I want something quick delicious and loved by the whole family These quesadillas are the best of two worlds They bring together crispy bacon gooey cheese and a tangy slap of ranch for a quick lunch snack or weeknight dinner If you have leftover chicken toss it in to make each bite even heartier

My kids started fighting over the last wedge the first time I served these Now I always double the batch just to keep the peace

Ingredients

  • Flour tortilla: Soft and pliable go for a fresh bakery tortilla if you can find it as it will crisp up perfectly in the skillet
  • Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps the tortilla get that beautifully golden crunch Use real butter if possible for the very best taste
  • Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and gives that gooey stringy texture When possible buy a block and grate it yourself for ultimate melt
  • Bacon: The smoky salty star of the show Cook it until crisp and crumbly for maximum punch
  • Ranch dressing: Creamy herby and cool Look for one in the refrigerated section for fresher flavor or even make your own
  • Lettuce: Crisp and cool green leaf or iceberg both add fresh crunch for serving
  • Diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and a little sweet tang If in season grab ripe local tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:
Set your skillet over medium heat and let the butter melt Swirl it so the entire surface is coated The butter does double duty here helping prevent sticking and giving the tortilla golden crispy edges
Build the Quesadilla:
Lay the tortilla flat into the skillet right on top of that sizzling butter Sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly all the way to the edges Next scatter the crumbled bacon across and drizzle over the creamy ranch dressing
Top and Cook:
If you want an extra thick quesadilla you can add a second tortilla If not keep it single layered Let it cook for about five minutes on the first side You want the cheese fully melted and the bottom deep golden brown
Flip and Finish:
Carefully flip using a wide spatula If cheese oozes out that is a good sign Cook another two to three minutes until both sides are crispy golden and the inside is molten
Rest and Cut:
Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and let it rest about one minute This helps everything settle so it slices without falling apart Cut into wedges using a pizza cutter or big knife
Top and Serve:
Pile shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on top Serve any extra ranch on the side for dunking
A stack of bacon quesadillas. Save
A stack of bacon quesadillas. | lilicooks.com

Bacon really does make everything better My favorite trick is to use really thick peppered bacon from my favorite butcher The extra punch turns a simple quesadilla into an unforgettable lunch My little nephew once told me these quesadillas are better than pizza and that is high praise in our house

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge They reheat best in a skillet or toaster oven for a crispy texture These keep well for about two days but usually disappear long before

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier twist try turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative You can swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for extra kick No ranch on hand Use sour cream or even a Greek yogurt dip

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of salsa or guacamole for a party platter Or add a handful of cooked chicken to round out dinner and keep everyone full A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top sends the flavor over the top

A stack of bacon quesadillas. Save
A stack of bacon quesadillas. | lilicooks.com

Cultural Context

Classic quesadillas come from Mexican cuisine but this playful version is definitely an American mashup I love how recipes like this invite kids to try new flavors without giving up their favorites

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella are great alternatives to cheddar for a different flavor or melt.

→ Should I cook the bacon beforehand?

Absolutely—cook and crumble the bacon before adding it to the tortilla, ensuring it’s crispy and flavorful.

→ What’s the best way to flip the quesadilla?

Use a wide spatula for easy flipping, and let the bottom turn golden before carefully turning the quesadilla over.

→ Can I add vegetables inside?

Yes, try sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition inside your quesadilla.

→ How do I prevent soggy quesadillas?

Cook over medium heat so the filling melts as the tortilla crisps; don’t overload with dressing inside.

→ Are these good for meal prep?

They’re best fresh, but you can assemble in advance, refrigerate, and cook when ready for a quick meal.

Cheesy Bacon Quesadilla with Ranch

Cheddar, bacon, ranch, and fresh toppings create a hearty, melty quesadilla in just minutes.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
10 min
Overall Time
20 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 2 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ For the Quesadillas

01 1 flour tortilla
02 1 tsp butter
03 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
04 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
05 1 Tbsp ranch dressing

→ Toppings for Serving

06 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
07 1/3 cup diced tomatoes

Steps

Step 01

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Be sure to use medium heat so the insides of the quesadilla melt before the outside burns.

Step 02

Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the tortilla, add crumbled bacon, and drizzle with ranch dressing. Top with the second tortilla.

Step 03

Cook until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the quesadilla and repeat on the other side, which usually takes about 5 minutes in total.

Step 04

Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for one minute, then cut into wedges. Serve with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Optionally, dip in extra ranch dressing.

Tips

  1. Adding sliced or shredded chicken is a great way to make the quesadilla heartier. Leftover grilled chicken works particularly well.

Required Tools

  • Skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains gluten (flour tortilla)
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 289
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Proteins: 9 g