Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a perfect combination of flavors and textures. These crispy, golden quesadillas are filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a blend of spices that make every bite irresistible. Easy to prepare, they’re ideal for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a snack. This recipe offers a delightful mix of spiced beef, gooey cheese, and a crunchy tortilla exterior. Pair it with your favorite dips, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter
Preparation:
Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is fully browned. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is evenly seasoned.
Step 3:
Once the beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Drain any excess grease, then set the beef mixture aside.
Step 4:
In a clean skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place one tortilla into the skillet. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a portion of the beef mixture on top of the cheese. Add more cheese on top of the beef to ensure every bite is cheesy.
Step 5:
Fold the tortilla in half and cook until it is golden brown and crispy on one side (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, adding more butter as needed.
Cooking Note:
- Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the tortillas. Medium to medium-low heat works best for achieving a perfect golden crust.
- Ensure to drain excess grease from the beef to prevent soggy quesadillas.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these quesadillas with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro on top for a touch of freshness.
- These quesadillas pair well with a side salad or Mexican rice for a more complete meal.
Tips:
- Customizable: You can customize your quesadillas by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even corn to the beef mixture.
- Cheese Choice: While cheddar or a Mexican blend is recommended, feel free to use mozzarella, pepper jack, or any melting cheese you love.
- Make It Spicy: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili powder or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs:
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can. However, corn tortillas may be smaller and less pliable than flour tortillas, so handling them carefully is essential to avoid breaking.
2. How do I store leftover quesadillas?
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to retain their crispy texture.
3. Can I make these quesadillas in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and cook the quesadillas just before serving for the best taste and texture.
4. How can I make these quesadillas vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are the perfect quick-fix meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With a savory beef filling and melted cheese sandwiched between crispy tortillas, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving these as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different cheese and add-ins to make it your own. Enjoy the deliciousness with your favorite dips, and make any meal a fiesta!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy & Delicious Quesadilla
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is fully browned. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is evenly seasoned.
Step 3:
Once the beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Drain any excess grease, then set the beef mixture aside.
Step 4:
In a clean skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place one tortilla into the skillet. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a portion of the beef mixture on top of the cheese. Add more cheese on top of the beef to ensure every bite is cheesy.
Step 5:
Fold the tortilla in half and cook until it is golden brown and crispy on one side (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, adding more butter as needed.
Notes
Cooking Note:
- Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the tortillas. Medium to medium-low heat works best for achieving a perfect golden crust.
- Ensure to drain excess grease from the beef to prevent soggy quesadillas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 600mg
- Protein: 20g