Description
Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavorful ground beef, these quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party snack, or meal prep, this recipe is easy, delicious, and completely customizable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Season the Filling: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, tomato paste, and beef broth. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Place a tortilla on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of cheese, add a portion of the beef mixture, and top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook Until Golden: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush with olive oil or butter. Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let quesadillas cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture.
- For a spicier kick, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a more traditional texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex