Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Cheesy ground beef quesadillas are a simple yet delicious meal that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. These quesadillas are packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, making them a hit with both kids and adults. With minimal preparation and cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into this cheesy delight!

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ¼ cup water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
• Salsa, for serving (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)
• Guacamole, for serving (optional)
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.
• Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors combine and the liquid reduces slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

• Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface.
• Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on one half of each tortilla.

Step 3: Add the Beef Filling

• Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture over the cheese layer on each tortilla.
• Sprinkle another layer of cheese over the ground beef mixture.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

• Heat a tablespoon of butter or a drizzle of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Place one tortilla in the skillet, cheese and beef side up. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas, adding more butter or oil as needed.

Step 5: Serve the Quesadillas

• Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool slightly before cutting them into wedges.
• Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

Cooking Note:

To prevent the tortillas from burning, keep the heat at medium and adjust as needed. If making multiple quesadillas, keep the cooked ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair these cheesy ground beef quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce on the side.

Tips:

1. Vegetable Additions: Enhance your quesadillas by adding sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the beef mixture.
2. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
3. Make-Ahead: Prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the quesadillas when ready to eat.
4. Freezing: Quesadillas can be assembled and frozen for later. Wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and cook as directed.
5. Serving Size: This recipe makes approximately 8 quesadillas. Adjust the quantities proportionally if you need more or fewer servings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 900mg

Conclusion:

Cheesy ground beef quesadillas are a tasty and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen. With their crispy exterior and melty, savory filling, these quesadillas are sure to be a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious snack for a gathering, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy these delightful quesadillas with your favorite toppings and sides!

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