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!
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:
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance your quesadillas by adding sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the beef mixture.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a quick and satisfying meal, featuring seasoned ground beef and melted cheese inside crispy tortillas. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack, these quesadillas are easy to make and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Wipe the skillet clean and heat ½ tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with ¼ cup of shredded cheese.
- Add about ¼ cup of the beef mixture on top of the cheese, then sprinkle with another ¼ cup of cheese.
- Top with a second tortilla and cook until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 more minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with optional toppings.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapenos to the beef mixture.
- You can use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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