Who says quesadillas have to be carb-heavy? This bacon & provolone quesadilla is a rich, satisfying dish perfect for those who love bold flavors while keeping their meals low in carbs.
The crispy tortilla, melty cheese, and smoky bacon make it an irresistible choice for breakfast, lunch, or a quick dinner.
Why This Quesadilla Stands Out
Many traditional quesadillas rely on carb-loaded tortillas and mild cheeses, but this version swaps in a low-carb tortilla, provolone, and mozzarella for a creamy, savory blend.
The addition of bacon brings a crispy texture and rich flavor, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy contrast.
Plus, black olives (if you choose to add them) provide a briny depth that makes every bite even more delicious.
For those on a keto diet, this is an ideal option. With high protein and healthy fats, it helps keep you full and satisfied without the carb spike.
The combination of cheeses also gives you a good dose of calcium, while bacon contributes a smoky richness that pairs perfectly with the slightly tangy marinara sauce.
The Perfect Low-Carb Tortilla
Choosing the right tortilla is key to keeping this dish within low-carb guidelines. While there are many keto-friendly tortillas available, look for ones that are high in fiber and have minimal net carbs.
If you prefer a more DIY approach, you can even make your own by using almond or coconut flour to keep things even cleaner.
If you’re not strictly following keto guidelines, whole wheat or protein-rich tortillas can be great substitutes. They provide more fiber and add a slightly nutty taste to complement the rich cheese and bacon.
Cheese Matters: Why Provolone & Mozzarella?
Provolone is the star of this recipe, and for good reason. It melts beautifully while adding a slightly sharp, nutty taste that balances the saltiness of the bacon.
Mozzarella, on the other hand, provides that irresistible stretch and creaminess. Together, they create the perfect gooey filling that makes this quesadilla absolutely crave-worthy.
For variations, you can experiment with different cheese combinations:
- Cheddar for a sharper bite
- Pepper jack for a spicy kick
- Gouda for a smoky depth
- Parmesan sprinkled on top for an extra flavor boost
Adding More Flavor Without the Carbs
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. If you want to elevate the flavors, here are some easy, low-carb add-ins:
- Avocado slices: Add creaminess and healthy fats
- Sautéed mushrooms: Enhance the umami richness
- Jalapeños: Give it a spicy twist
- Fresh basil or oregano: A touch of herbs can brighten the dish
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Great for a subtle heat boost
Since marinara sauce is included, make sure to use one that is low in sugar to keep the carb count minimal.
Some store-bought varieties have added sugars, so always check the label or make your own at home with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Cooking Tips for the Crispiest Quesadilla
A well-cooked quesadilla should be crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. To achieve that perfect texture:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt evenly.
- Coat the tortilla evenly with butter before heating for a golden, crispy crust.
- Flip carefully with a spatula to keep everything intact.
- Press down lightly with a spatula while cooking for even crispiness.
Since this recipe is quick and easy, it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the bacon in advance, shred the cheese, and have everything ready to go so you can assemble and cook it in minutes.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
While this bacon & provolone quesadilla is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can make it even better. Since it’s rich and cheesy, consider lighter, fresh side dishes like:
- A crisp salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing
- Guacamole or avocado crema for dipping
- A bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combination
- A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or zucchini fries for extra veggies
If you’re serving it for breakfast, a fried or poached egg on top takes it to the next level, adding richness and an extra protein boost.
This bacon & provolone quesadilla is an easy, low-carb meal that delivers big on flavor while keeping things simple.
With endless customization options, you can tweak it to fit your cravings while keeping it deliciously keto-friendly.
Keto Bacon & Provolone Quesadilla
Ingredients
- 1 low-carb tortilla (strict keto use cheese or egg wrap)
- 3 slices of bacon
- ½ cup shredded provolone & mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp sliced black olives optional
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces.
- Heat the Tortilla: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, place the tortilla in the pan, ensuring it gets evenly coated. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Spread the marinara sauce over one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle half of the cheese on top, followed by the chopped bacon, optional black olives, and the remaining cheese.
- Fold & Cook: Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently. Return the skillet to medium heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the heat, slice, and enjoy warm!
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles. Also an aspiring cook we he researches and tries all kinds of different food recipes and shares what works best.