Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Ground beef quesadillas are a quick, delicious, and versatile meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. These quesadillas are loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and warm tortillas for a flavorful, satisfying bite. Serve them with your favorite toppings or dips for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

For the Quesadillas

• 8 medium flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling

1. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
3. Season the Filling: Sprinkle the taco seasoning, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the beef. Stir well to coat.
4. Add Vegetables: Mix in the diced tomatoes and corn (if using). Cook for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

1. Lay Out the Tortillas: Place 4 tortillas on a clean surface.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a layer of shredded cheese over half of each tortilla. Top with the prepared ground beef mixture, then add another layer of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
3. Prepare the Pan: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

1. Cook Until Golden: Place the folded tortillas on the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
2. Keep Warm: Transfer cooked quesadillas to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining ones.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cut and Plate: Cut each quesadilla into wedges using a knife or pizza cutter.
2. Add Toppings: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
3. Pair with Sides: Consider serving with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Customize the Filling: Add bell peppers, jalapeños, or black beans to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of beans.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble uncooked quesadillas, wrap them tightly in plastic, and freeze. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Ground beef quesadillas are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy tortillas, a gooey cheesy filling, and plenty of savory goodness, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Customize them to your liking and serve with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!