The Filling Turkey, Cranberry, and Brie Quesadilla is a delicious twist on the traditional Mexican quesadilla, reimagined with a fusion of flavors and a seasonal flare. This creative take blends the oozy indulgence of melted brie with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the hearty richness of seasoned ground turkey, all enveloped in warm, toasted flour tortillas. It’s not only satisfying but also a healthier alternative to the classic versions typically made with heavier meats like beef or pork.
This recipe is inspired by the idea of transforming holiday leftovers into something exciting and full of flavor. Turkey and cranberry are both staples of Thanksgiving in many households, and when paired with brie—a cheese known for its buttery, creamy texture—you get an irresistible blend of savory and sweet that feels both comforting and slightly luxurious. The use of dried cranberries adds a chewy texture and a pop of sweetness, while toasted walnuts provide an earthy crunch and nutritional boost, making this dish as hearty as it is wholesome.
Quesadillas have long been a beloved comfort food in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, traditionally consisting of cheese and other fillings sandwiched between tortillas and cooked until golden and melty. What makes this version unique is the unexpected pairing of brie and cranberry, which gives it a European touch, whilst the ground turkey keeps it lean and protein-packed. The creamy chive topping adds a layer of richness and complexity, with hints of garlic and cayenne for a zesty finish. It’s a sophisticated yet simple topping that complements the subtle flavors of the turkey and ties all the ingredients together.
Perfect for lunch, a casual dinner, or even a weekend brunch, this quesadilla is extremely versatile. It’s a great recipe for using up turkey after a festive meal, but it’s just as delightful made from scratch with fresh ground turkey. The preparation is straightforward and doesn’t require any special cooking skills—just a few quality ingredients and a bit of kitchen confidence are all you need to whip up this dish.
Nutritionally, this quesadilla strikes a smart balance. Using low-fat sour cream and tortillas helps to lighten the dish, while the inclusion of nuts, lean protein, and natural sweetness from fruits makes it both satisfying and nourishing. It feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it an excellent choice for those who are health-conscious but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
In essence, the Filling Turkey, Cranberry, and Brie Quesadilla is a modern, fusion-style dish that combines the boldness of Mexican comfort food with the refinement of European-inspired ingredients—and a nod to holiday flavors many know and love. Whether served as an appetizer during a get-together or enjoyed as a full meal, it’s a creative and tasty recipe that will make everyone come back for seconds.
Filling Turkey, Cranberry and Brie Quesadilla
Ingredients
Chive Topping Ingredients
½ cup sour cream - low-fat- ½ cup chives - thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic - minced
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Quesadilla Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground turkey (minced turkey)
- 2 cups brie cheese - rind removed
- 8 large flour tortillas - low-fat
- 1 cup cranberries - sweetened and dried
- ½ cup walnuts - toasted and chopped
- ½ cup chives - thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Purée topping ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Refrigerate.
- Sauté cutlets in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes per side or until the turkey is no longer raw and reaches an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool and shred turkey by hand.
- To make quesadilla: Spread ½ cup of Brie over tortilla. Layer ½ cup of turkey, ¼ cup of cranberries, 2 tablespoons walnuts and 2 tablespoons of chives. Top with the second tortilla. Repeat three times.
- Bake quesadillas on a baking sheet for 8 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted. Cut into wedges. Serve with chive topping.
