Looking for the perfect comfort food that’s quick, delicious, and a guaranteed hit with the family? This beef quesadilla recipe combines savory ground beef, melted cheese, and bold spices all tucked into a crispy tortilla. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings Mexican-inspired joy to your dinner table. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this dish is your weeknight dinner savior!
Beef Quesadilla Recipe
Cuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutes350
kcalA cheesy and flavorful beef quesadilla recipe with spiced ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Ingredients
- For the Filling
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- For the Quesadillas:
8 flour tortillas
2 tablespoons butter or more as needed
- Optional Toppings:
Sour cream
Guacamole
Chopped cilantro
Extra salsa
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the salsa and simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.
- Lay a flour tortilla flat and sprinkle a thin layer of both cheeses on one side.
- Spoon a portion of the beef mixture over the cheese, then top with more cheese. Cover with another tortilla.
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter.
- Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Slice each quesadilla into wedges. Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and extra salsa on the side.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to minimize grease.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Keep the quesadillas warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while cooking the rest.
Tips for perfect Beef Quesadilla
- Cheese Matters: Blend different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for the best flavor.
- Prevent Overfilling: Overstuffed quesadillas are harder to flip and cook evenly.
- Crispy Tortillas: Don’t skip the butter or oil when cooking; it creates the perfect golden crust.
- Customization: Add veggies like bell peppers or black beans to the filling for a hearty twist.
Recipe Variants
- Cheesy Beef and Bean Quesadillas: Add 1/2 cup of refried or black beans to the beef mixture.
- Spicy Jalapeño Quesadillas: Incorporate sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
- Breakfast Quesadillas: Mix scrambled eggs into the beef filling and top with cheese.
FAQ
Yes, you can prepare the beef filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas just before serving.
Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Yes, cooked quesadillas can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Absolutely! Swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas, available at most grocery stores.
This beef quesadilla recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. With perfectly seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for dinner, lunch, or a party appetizer, these quesadillas will hit the spot every time. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor!
If you want to try another tasty quesadilla we suggest you try Chicken Quesadilla Recipe!
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