Pizza Quesadillas with Pepperoni

Pizza Quesadillas with Pepperoni are a fun, delicious fusion of two comfort food favorites. These crispy, cheesy quesadillas deliver all the classic flavors of pizza—pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara—wrapped in a golden, pan-fried tortilla. Quick to make and highly customizable, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or party snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the crisp, handheld convenience of a quesadilla and the rich, savory taste of a pepperoni pizza. It comes together in minutes using simple ingredients, making it a reliable option for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with your favorite pizza toppings, cheeses, or sauces. Every bite is gooey, crispy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tsp olive oil or butter
¼ cup diced onions
¼–½ cup diced bell peppers
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
8 (8-inch) tortillas
½–1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4–6 oz sliced pepperoni

Directions

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Lay out half of the tortillas. Spread a layer of marinara or pizza sauce on each. Top with the sautéed vegetables, sliced pepperoni, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with the remaining tortillas.
Return the skillet to medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, with the cheese melted inside.
Cut into wedges and serve warm. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute turkey pepperoni or vegetarian pepperoni for a lighter or meat-free option.
Add sliced mushrooms, olives, or spinach for extra toppings.
Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
Swap mozzarella for a cheese blend like Italian mix or cheddar for a different flavor.
Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side to restore crispiness. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortillas soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, pizza sauce works just as well and adds authentic pizza flavor.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate, then cook just before serving.

What’s the best way to get the quesadillas crispy?

Cook over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt while the tortilla crisps up without burning.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are pizza quesadillas freezer-friendly?

It is best to freeze them after cooking. Reheat in the oven or skillet to restore crispness.

What sides go well with these quesadillas?

A simple green salad, garlic breadsticks, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, cheddar, provolone, or an Italian blend all work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the filling from falling out?

Do not overfill the quesadillas, and press them gently with a spatula while cooking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and customizable ingredients make it a hit with kids.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your sauce and pepperoni are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pizza Quesadillas with Pepperoni are a simple, delicious way to enjoy pizza flavors with minimal effort. Ready in just 20 minutes, these crispy, cheesy quesadillas make a perfect quick meal or snack. Customize them with your favorite toppings, serve with a side of marinara, and enjoy a fun twist on a classic.

[tasty-recipe id=”15452″]