why make this recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up a quick, delicious meal. They are easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights. With their crispy tortillas, flavorful beef filling, and gooey cheese, these quesadillas are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them even more enjoyable!

how to make Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup tomato sauce or salsa
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
6 large flour tortillas
Butter or oil for frying
Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for serving (optional)

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, making sure to drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Place the tortillas on a work surface. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on one half of each tortilla. Spoon the beef mixture over the cheese and top it with more cheese. Fold the tortillas to seal them.
In a clean skillet, heat some butter or oil over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Let the quesadillas cool slightly, slice them into wedges, and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole if desired.

how to serve Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Serve the quesadillas hot, cut into wedges for easy eating. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. They make a great appetizer for parties or a quick main dish for dinner. Enjoy them with a side of salad or chips for a complete meal!

how to store Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

If you have leftover quesadillas, let them cool completely before storing them. Place the quesadilla wedges in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by wrapping each quesadilla in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

For extra flavor, add some chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
Use different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different taste.
Make sure the skillet is hot enough before cooking the quesadillas to achieve that perfect crispiness.
If you prefer a lighter option, use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.

variation

You can easily make vegetarian quesadillas by replacing the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. Add your favorite beans for protein and keep the cheese for that creamy finish!

FAQs

Can I make quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas later. Store the filling in the fridge and assemble just before cooking.
What can I serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas?
You can serve them with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are also great accompaniments.
Can I bake the quesadillas instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas