🌮 Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
🛒 Ingredients (Makes 4 quesadillas):
For the filling:
-
1 lb (450g) ground beef
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
1 tsp cumin
-
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
½ cup tomato sauce or salsa (optional, for moisture)
For assembling:
-
1½ to 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
-
4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
-
Butter or oil for cooking
-
Optional: jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Filling
-
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned (about 6–8 minutes).
-
Drain excess fat.
-
Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
-
Stir in a few spoonfuls of tomato sauce or salsa for extra flavor (optional).
-
Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas
-
Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
-
Lightly butter one side of a tortilla and place it in the pan, butter-side down.
-
On one half of the tortilla, layer shredded cheese, a few spoonfuls of beef mixture, then more cheese.
-
Fold the tortilla in half.
3. Cook
-
Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
-
Repeat with remaining tortillas.
4. Slice and Serve
-
Cut into wedges and serve hot.
🥑 Serving Suggestions:
-
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce.
-
Add shredded lettuce or pico de gallo for a fresh contrast.
Would you like a spicy version, or tips for making these in the oven or air fryer?