Shrimp Fajita Sheet Pan Quesadillas

I discovered sheet pan quesadillas during a chaotic weeknight when my usual stovetop method felt like too much effort. The shrimp cooked faster than I expected, and the vegetables caramelized in ways my skillet never achieved. My family actually cheered when I pulled that golden, bubbling tray from the oven.

Last summer, I made these for a beach house dinner with friends. We stood around the kitchen island, squeezing fresh lime wedges over each slice while the ocean breeze drifted through the window. Someone asked for the recipe before they even finished their first wedge.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Peel and devein them yourself for better quality, or buy them prepped to save precious minutes
• Bell peppers: The combination of red and yellow creates beautiful color contrast and slightly different sweetness levels
• Red onion: Thinly sliced, it becomes sweet and tender in the high heat of the oven
• Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander: This spice blend mimics restaurant style fajita seasoning without the fillers
• Flour tortillas: Large 10 inch wraps fold easily over the filling and develop satisfying crunch
• Mexican blend cheese: Pre shredded saves time, but shredding your own creates the dreamiest melt
• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle it between the layers for bright pops of herbal flavor throughout

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Set it to 425°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easiest cleanup ever

Season the shrimp and vegetables:

Combine everything in a large bowl with olive oil, spices, and lime juice until the shrimp are evenly coated

Roast the filling:

Spread the mixture on your prepared sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and vegetables soften

Heat things up:

Increase oven temperature to 450°F while you assemble the quesadillas on the counter

Build the quesadillas:

Layer three tortillas with half the cheese, the shrimp mixture, remaining cheese, and cilantro, then top with more tortillas

Bake until golden:

Carefully transfer to the baking sheet, brush tops with oil, and bake 6 to 8 minutes per side until deeply crisp

Rest and serve:

Let them sit for 2 minutes so the cheese sets, then cut into wedges with all your favorite toppings

Pin Recipe

These became my go to for potluck contributions because they transport beautifully and reheat surprisingly well. I once doubled the recipe for a Super Bowl party and every single wedge disappeared before the third quarter.

Making Ahead

The shrimp and vegetable mixture can be seasoned and roasted up to 8 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature while the oven preheats before assembling your quesadillas.

Perfecting the Crisp

Lightly brushing the tortilla tops with olive oil before baking creates that golden restaurant style crunch. I learned this trick after several batches came out disappointingly soft, and now it is nonnegotiable in my kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, salsa, sliced avocado, and extra lime wedges. The fresh components balance the rich, spicy filling and let everyone customize their portion.

• Warm your serving plates in the oven for 2 minutes
• Have extra napkins ready because these can get messy
• Cut with a sharp knife or pizza wheel for clean wedges

Pin Recipe

There is something deeply satisfying about serving dinner that looks impressive but required almost no active cooking time. These quesadillas might just become your weeknight secret weapon too.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of shrimp works best in this dish?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal as they cook evenly and offer a tender texture that complements the peppers and spices.

→ Can I customize the vegetables used?

Absolutely, you can add or substitute with mushrooms, zucchini, or other veggies that roast well alongside the shrimp.

→ How do I achieve crispy edges on the quesadillas?

Brushing tortillas lightly with olive oil before baking and flipping halfway through creates a golden, crispy exterior.

→ What spices enhance the flavor in this dish?

A blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and lime juice brings a vibrant, smoky, and zesty profile.

→ Is there a recommended serving suggestion?

Serve with sour cream, salsa, lime wedges, and sliced avocado for added freshness and balance.