Sincronizadas are a delightful Mexican dish that combines the simplicity of a sandwich with the flavors of a quesadilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these cheesy, ham-filled tortillas are sure to satisfy your cravings. The crispy exterior and gooey interior make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common household items. However, if you don't usually keep flour tortillas or shredded cheese on hand, you might need to pick them up at the supermarket. Look for flour tortillas in the bread or international foods aisle, and shredded cheese in the dairy section.
Ingredients for Sincronizada Recipe
Flour tortillas: Soft, pliable flatbreads made from wheat flour, essential for wrapping the fillings.
Shredded cheese: Either cheddar or mozzarella, this adds a creamy, melty texture to the dish.
Ham: Thinly sliced, it provides a savory, meaty flavor that complements the cheese.
Butter: Used to crisp up the tortillas and add a rich, buttery taste.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When making sincronizadas, ensure the skillet is preheated properly to achieve a perfect golden brown on the tortillas. This helps in melting the cheese evenly and gives a nice crisp texture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a different texture and flavor, making the dish gluten-free and adding a traditional Mexican touch.
flour tortillas - Substitute with whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas provide a healthier option with more fiber and nutrients.
shredded cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free alternative, vegan cheese can be used, which melts similarly and provides a cheesy flavor.
ham - Substitute with turkey slices: Turkey slices are a leaner option and provide a similar texture and flavor.
ham - Substitute with grilled vegetables: For a vegetarian option, grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add flavor and texture.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a subtle flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative that provides a similar texture and taste.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store / Freeze This Dish
Allow the sincronizadas to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the tortillas soggy.
Wrap each sincronizada individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.
Place the wrapped sincronizadas in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 2 months.
To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sincronizadas on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
For reheating from the freezer, allow the sincronizadas to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then follow the same reheating instructions as above.
Alternatively, you can reheat directly from the freezer by placing them in a microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
For a crispier texture, finish reheating in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side after microwaving.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sincronizadas on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are heated through.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sincronizadas in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Use a microwave-safe plate and cover the sincronizadas with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is quick but may result in a softer texture.
If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the sincronizadas directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the tortillas evenly on both sides.
Spatula: A tool used to flip the tortillas without breaking them.
Butter knife: Used to spread butter on the tortillas.
Measuring cup: Ensures you use the correct amount of shredded cheese.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to lay out and assemble the tortillas, ham, and cheese.
Knife: Useful for cutting the ham slices if they need to be trimmed to fit the tortillas.
Plate: For placing the cooked sincronizadas once they are done.
Grater: If you are using a block of cheese, this will help you shred it.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-shred the cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating.
Use pre-cooked ham: Opt for pre-cooked ham to skip any additional cooking steps.
Butter in advance: Butter all tortillas before starting to streamline the process.
Cook multiple at once: Use a large skillet or griddle to cook more than one sincronizada at a time.
Prep ingredients: Have all ingredients ready and within reach before you start cooking.

Sincronizada Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 slices ham
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each tortilla.
- Place one tortilla, butter side down, in the skillet.
- Add 2 slices of ham and ½ cup of cheese on top.
- Place another tortilla on top, butter side up.
- Cook until the bottom tortilla is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas, ham, and cheese.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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