Spam-tastic Breakfast Quesadillas: A Quick & Delicious Morning Meal

Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you crave something savory, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These Spam breakfast quesadillas are the answer to your morning meal woes. They’re a delightful combination of crispy tortillas, melted cheese, savory Spam, fluffy scrambled eggs, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, these quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite.

## Why Spam Quesadillas? Trust Us, It Works!

Okay, we get it. Spam might not be the first ingredient that springs to mind when you think of breakfast. But trust us on this one! Spam is a versatile ingredient that adds a salty, savory punch to any dish. When crisped up in a pan, it becomes irresistibly delicious. It pairs perfectly with eggs, cheese, and tortillas, creating a breakfast experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and has a long shelf life, making it a pantry staple you can always rely on.

## The Ultimate Spam Breakfast Quesadilla Recipe

Ready to dive in? Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Spam breakfast quesadillas:

**Yields:** 2 quesadillas
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 large flour tortillas (8-10 inch)
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, diced
* 4 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons milk or cream
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
* 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
* Optional toppings: salsa, hot sauce, avocado slices, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro

**Equipment:**

* Large skillet or griddle
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Cutting board
* Knife

**Instructions:**

**1. Prep the Spam:**

* Open the can of Spam and carefully remove the block. Place it on a cutting board.
* Dice the Spam into small cubes, about 1/4-inch in size. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and distributes nicely throughout the quesadilla.

**2. Scramble the Eggs:**

* In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
* Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. This will create light and fluffy scrambled eggs.

**3. Cook the Spam:**

* Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or cooking oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
* Add the diced Spam to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and slightly crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
* Once the Spam is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl.

**4. Scramble the Eggs (Again!):**

* In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter or cooking oil. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
* Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
* Cook the eggs, gently pushing the cooked edges towards the center with a spatula, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process until the eggs are mostly set but still slightly moist. Avoid overcooking the eggs, as they will continue to cook inside the quesadilla.
* Remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set aside.

**5. Assemble the Quesadillas:**

* Lay out two flour tortillas on a clean surface.
* Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over each tortilla.
* Top the cheese with half of the cooked Spam and half of the scrambled eggs on each tortilla, making sure to distribute them evenly.
* Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the Spam and eggs.
* Carefully fold each tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.

**6. Cook the Quesadillas:**

* Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel to remove any excess grease.
* Place the quesadillas in the skillet over medium heat. If you can fit both at the same time without overcrowding the pan, do so. Otherwise, cook them one at a time.
* Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. You can gently press down on the quesadillas with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
* If the cheese is not melting quickly enough, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to help trap the heat.

**7. Serve and Enjoy!**

* Remove the cooked quesadillas from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
* Let them cool slightly before cutting each quesadilla into wedges (usually 3 or 4 wedges per quesadilla).
* Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, hot sauce, avocado slices, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro.

## Tips and Variations for the Perfect Spam Quesadilla

* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier quesadilla.
* **Add veggies:** Sauté some diced onions, peppers, or mushrooms along with the Spam for added flavor and nutrition. Spinach or kale can also be added to the scrambled eggs.
* **Different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
* **Use different tortillas:** Whole wheat tortillas add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Corn tortillas can also be used for a gluten-free option, but they may be more prone to cracking.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute the Spam with cooked black beans, refried beans, or sautéed tofu for a vegetarian version.
* **Sweet and savory:** Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the scrambled eggs for a sweet and savory twist.
* **Make it ahead:** You can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent the tortillas from drying out.
* **Cooking Methods:** While a skillet is ideal, you can also use a panini press, griddle, or even an air fryer to cook the quesadillas. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
* **Egg Variations:** Instead of scrambled eggs, consider making a thin omelet and chopping it up to incorporate into the quesadilla. This provides a different texture.
* **Use Leftovers:** This recipe is a great way to use up leftover Spam or other cooked meats.
* **Crispy Tortillas:** For extra crispy tortillas, brush them lightly with oil or butter before cooking.
* **Salsa Selection:** Experiment with different types of salsa – mild, medium, hot, or even a fruit-based salsa like mango salsa – to complement the savory flavors.
* **Spice Blends:** Add a pinch of your favorite spice blend, such as taco seasoning or chili powder, to the Spam while it’s cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

## Spam 101: Choosing and Storing Your Spam

While classic Spam is a great option, there are several varieties available to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Consider these options:

* **Spam Lite:** Contains 25% less sodium and 50% less fat than classic Spam.
* **Spam Less Sodium:** Contains 25% less sodium than classic Spam.
* **Spam with Bacon:** Combines the classic Spam flavor with the smoky taste of bacon.
* **Spam Teriyaki:** Features a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.
* **Spam Jalapeño:** Adds a spicy kick with diced jalapeños.

**Storing Spam:**

Unopened cans of Spam can be stored in a cool, dry place for several years. Once opened, Spam should be refrigerated in an airtight container and used within 5-7 days.

## Serving Suggestions

These Spam breakfast quesadillas are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with other breakfast dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Fruit Salad:** A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet and healthy contrast to the savory quesadillas.
* **Yogurt Parfait:** A yogurt parfait with granola and berries adds a creamy and crunchy element to the meal.
* **Side of Potatoes:** Serve with crispy hash browns, roasted potatoes, or breakfast potatoes for a heartier meal.
* **Avocado Toast:** A slice of avocado toast complements the quesadillas perfectly and adds healthy fats to the meal.
* **Coffee or Juice:** Don’t forget your favorite breakfast beverage! Coffee, tea, orange juice, or grapefruit juice are all great options.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per quesadilla)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 25-30g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Why These Quesadillas Are a Breakfast Game-Changer:

* **Quick and Easy:** Perfect for busy mornings when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your own preferences and dietary needs.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Spam is an affordable ingredient that can help you save money on groceries.
* **Delicious and Satisfying:** A flavor combination that will leave you feeling full and happy.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will love these cheesy, savory quesadillas.

## More Ideas to Elevate Your Spam Breakfast Quesadillas:

Let’s push the boundaries of your breakfast quesadilla experience! Here are some adventurous ideas to truly elevate your Spam breakfast quesadillas:

* **Kimchi Quesadillas:** Embrace Korean flavors by adding kimchi to your quesadilla. The spicy, fermented cabbage pairs wonderfully with Spam and cheese.
* **Hawaiian Quesadillas:** Transport yourself to the islands by adding pineapple chunks and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce to your quesadilla. The sweet and savory combination is irresistible.
* **Mediterranean Quesadillas:** Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
* **Black Bean and Corn Salsa:** Ditch the usual salsa and opt for a vibrant black bean and corn salsa. It adds freshness, texture, and a hint of sweetness.
* **Chipotle Crema:** Elevate your sour cream game by adding a touch of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Blend it until smooth and drizzle over your quesadillas for a smoky, spicy kick.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning:** Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning on the tortillas before cooking for added flavor and texture.
* **Fried Egg Topper:** For an extra decadent experience, top your quesadilla with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor.
* **Waffle Iron Quesadillas:** For an extra crispy and unique quesadilla, try cooking it in a waffle iron. The waffle pattern creates crispy edges and pockets for the cheese to melt into.
* **Goat Cheese and Fig Jam:** A surprisingly delicious combination that adds a touch of elegance to your breakfast. The tangy goat cheese and sweet fig jam complement the savory Spam perfectly.
* **Peanut Butter and Banana:** For a truly unconventional breakfast quesadilla, spread peanut butter on one tortilla, add sliced bananas, and then the Spam, cheese, and eggs. It’s a sweet and savory explosion that will wake up your taste buds.

## Troubleshooting: Common Quesadilla Problems and Solutions

Even the best cooks can encounter a few hiccups along the way. Here are some common quesadilla problems and how to solve them:

* **Tortillas are Burning:** Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the quesadillas for a longer period of time. You can also add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet to help prevent sticking.
* **Cheese Isn’t Melting:** Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to help trap the heat and melt the cheese. You can also use a cheese that melts more easily, such as Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
* **Quesadilla is Falling Apart:** Don’t overfill the quesadilla. Use just enough filling to hold it together. You can also use a toothpick or two to secure the quesadilla while it’s cooking.
* **Quesadilla is Soggy:** Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the quesadilla. You can also blot the Spam and eggs with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
* **Quesadilla is Bland:** Add more seasoning to the eggs or Spam. You can also use a more flavorful cheese or salsa.

## The Takeaway: Embrace the Spam Quesadilla Life!

These Spam breakfast quesadillas are a fun, easy, and delicious way to start your day. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature quesadilla. So, ditch the boring breakfast routine and embrace the Spam quesadilla life! You won’t regret it.