Easy Fried Egg Quesadilla (Quick 15-Minute Breakfast!)

Transform your morning routine with this incredibly easy and satisfying Fried Egg Quesadilla. Ready in just 15 minutes, it combines a perfectly cooked fried egg with a runny yolk, melty cheese, and creamy avocado inside a crispy, golden tortilla. This recipe is the ultimate solution for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or whenever you need a protein-packed meal that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort.

The magic lies in the simplicity. By cooking the egg first and then using the same skillet to assemble and crisp the quesadilla, you build layers of flavor and ensure everything is hot and gooey. The runny egg yolk acts as a built-in sauce, making each bite rich and delicious. It’s a customizable canvas for your favorite breakfast flavors and a guaranteed way to start your day right.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Quick: From stove to plate in 15 minutes flat.
• Minimal Ingredients: Requires just a few basic pantry staples.
• Protein-Packed: Eggs and cheese provide lasting energy to fuel your morning.
• Endlessly Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, meats, or sauces.
• Perfect Any Time: Great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a quick dinner.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Core Ingredients (for 1 large quesadilla):

• 2 large flour tortillas (burrito-size works best)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• ½ avocado, sliced
• 1 tbsp butter or oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving (Optional):

• Salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped

Easy Substitutions & Add-Ins:

• Tortillas: Use whole wheat, corn, or gluten-free tortillas.
• Cheese: Any good melting cheese works: pepper jack, mozzarella, or Oaxaca cheese.
• Add Protein: Add a layer of cooked bacon, sausage crumbles, or black beans.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms are delicious additions.
• Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Eggs: Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add ½ tablespoon of butter. Once hot, crack the eggs into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the whites are fully set but the yolks are still runny. Carefully transfer the eggs to a plate.
2. Assemble the Quesadilla: Wipe the skillet clean if there are lots of egg bits. Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Place the two fried eggs side-by-side on top of the cheese. Arrange the avocado slices over the eggs, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over everything. Top with the second tortilla.
3. Crisp to Perfection: Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter to the side of the skillet and let it melt, then carefully tilt the skillet to coat the bottom. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
4. The Flip: This is the trickiest part! Place a large plate upside down over the skillet. Using one hand to hold the plate firmly against the skillet, carefully flip the skillet and plate over together so the quesadilla lands on the plate. Then, slide the quesadilla back into the skillet to cook the other side.
5. Finish & Serve: Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted. Slide onto a cutting board, let cool for 1 minute, then slice into wedges with a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Expert Tips for the Best Quesadilla

• The Runny Yolk is Key: For the signature saucy effect, don’t overcook the eggs. The yolks should be soft and runny when you add them to the quesadilla.
• Medium Heat is Crucial: This allows the tortilla to crisp up beautifully without burning before the cheese melts and the egg reheats.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to add everything, too much filling will make it hard to flip and can cause the tortilla to tear. Layer ingredients thinly and evenly.
• The Plate Flip Method: The plate-and-skillet flip is the safest way to turn a loaded quesadilla without a disaster. It takes practice but is worth mastering!
• Serve Immediately: Quesadillas are at their absolute best—crispy outside, gooey inside—right off the stove.

Nutrition (Per Quesadilla): Approximately 550 calories | 28g Protein | 35g Carbohydrates | 35g Fat

If you love quick, savory breakfasts, you must try our Zesty Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels. For another easy egg-based meal, check out our Crack Chicken Tenders for dinner. This recipe was inspired by the simple, satisfying approach of the Fried Egg Quesadilla from Eggcellent Recipes.