Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares

Name: Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large whole wheat tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Salsa for serving

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares for gathering with friends and family. They're packed with delicious veggies, and every bite is bursting with flavor. The cheesy, crispy squares are easy to share and even easier to devour. I always prepare them in advance so I can simply pop them in the oven when guests arrive. What makes them special is the blend of spices that enhances the fresh vegetables, making them irresistible even to die-hard meat lovers. Trust me, this recipe will become a game-day staple!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:29:35.460Z

I remember the first time I made these baked veggie quesadilla squares for my friends during the Super Bowl. Everyone was raving about how flavorful and satisfying they were, even without any meat! The key is in the way the veggies are sautéed before baking; it really brings out their natural sweetness, and the cheese ties it all together beautifully.

After several batches and some trial and error, I discovered that using a mix of bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms gives the best flavor and texture, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a delightful kick. I serve them with a side of salsa for dipping, and they always disappear fast!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful and wholesome veggie-packed filling
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside
Perfect finger food for parties and game days

Perfecting Your Veggie Filling

The filling for these quesadilla squares is not just tasty; it's also what makes them a nutritional powerhouse. The combination of bell pepper, mushrooms, onion, and spinach provides diverse flavors and textures. Each vegetable plays a role: the bell pepper adds sweetness, the mushrooms offer an earthy taste, and the spinach contributes freshness. Sautéing these together allows them to soften and caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural flavors. Aim for a vibrant mix that appears glossy and tender, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Using whole wheat tortillas not only makes these quesadilla squares healthier but also gives them a slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the veggies. If you're looking to experiment, feel free to swap out ingredients; zucchini or kale can work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may release more moisture during cooking, so adjust sautéing time accordingly. For example, zucchini might need a couple more minutes to become tender before mixing in the spinach.

Baking for Crispiness

Achieving that sought-after crispy exterior requires a couple of tips during the baking process. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the quesadillas in to ensure they start cooking right away. This temperature allows the tortillas to crisp up without burning. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning. You’ll know they’re ready when they have golden edges and a delightful crunch.

If you're experiencing soggy quesadillas, check the moisture content of your filling. Avoid overloading them; too much filling can make it difficult for the tortillas to crisp. Additionally, a light brush of olive oil on the outside before baking can help achieve a beautiful golden color and a crunchy texture. I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top of the folded quesadillas for added color and flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares can be prepared ahead of time, making them an ideal party snack. You can assemble and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. If you choose to freeze them, wrap each individual quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months. Bake the frozen quesadillas straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until they’re heated through and crispy.

Serving these squares with salsa not only adds a burst of flavor but also freshness that balances the richness of the cheesy filling. Consider offering a variety of salsas, such as a spicy verde, a tangy pico de gallo, or even a creamy avocado salsa to cater to different tastes. For a more festive presentation, garnish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten the whole dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Super Bowl Baked Veggie Quesadilla Squares:

Ingredients

4 large whole wheat tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Salsa for serving

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your quesadilla squares.

Prepare the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the spinach and smoked paprika, seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking until the spinach wilts.

Assemble the Quesadillas

Lay one tortilla flat and sprinkle half of the cheese evenly on one half. Add a generous amount of the veggie mixture on top of the cheese, then fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.

Bake and Slice

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the folded tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until crispy and golden. Once out of the oven, cut into squares and serve with salsa.

Enjoy your delicious quesadilla squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding black beans or corn into the veggie mix. Serving with guacamole can also elevate the experience.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about these quesadilla squares is their versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the veggie filling. If you're vegan, opt for a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure the tortillas you use are dairy-free, which will still deliver a delicious and satisfying result.

If you're not fond of cheese or wish to reduce fat content, consider using a mashed avocado spread on the tortillas instead. This not only gives a creamy texture but also adds a healthy fat component. Another variation could be using legumes like black beans or chickpeas; these add protein and help make the dish even heartier, perfect for meatless meals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that your quesadilla squares are not browning properly, it could be a result of the baking sheet being overcrowded. Make sure to leave sufficient space between each quesadilla to allow hot air to circulate freely around them. If you’re still encountering issues, consider broiling for the last minute of baking—watch them closely to prevent burning while achieving that perfect crispiness.

Should the filling spill out during baking, it’s usually caused by overstuffing. Stick to about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of filling per quesadilla to keep them contained. If some filling does escape, don't worry too much; it can make for delicious crispy bits on the baking sheet. Just remember to keep the edges of the tortillas clean of filling before folding to ensure a proper seal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the quesadillas and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, kale, or even roasted sweet potatoes would work well.

→ Can I use gluten-free tortillas?

Yes, gluten-free tortillas will work just fine. Choose ones that suit your dietary needs.

→ How can I make this a spicier dish?

Add sliced jalapeños to the veggie mix or sprinkle some chili powder in for added heat.