Ground Beef Quesadillas

Introduction

Ground Beef Quesadillas are a savory, satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With a crispy tortilla shell and a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a variety of tasty toppings, these quesadillas make for a perfect weeknight dinner, casual gathering snack, or a fun meal for the whole family.

I first made these on a busy weeknight when I was craving something flavorful and easy, and they quickly became a family favorite. The best part about these quesadillas is how customizable they are. You can load them up with your favorite ingredients—whether you like it spicy with jalapeños or extra cheesy with gooey melted cheese.

What’s great about Ground Beef Quesadillas is that they’re not only delicious but also portable and quick to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal in minutes or a snack for a casual gathering, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit every time!

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Casual gatherings or parties
• Family-friendly meals
• Snack or appetizer

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Quesadillas

Here’s why Ground Beef Quesadillas will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen:

• Flavorful Filling: The seasoned ground beef mixture is rich in flavor, making each bite a savory delight.
• Crispy and Golden: The tortillas are toasted to perfection, giving them a crispy, golden texture on the outside, with a melty, cheesy center.
• Customizable: Feel free to add toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro to tailor the quesadillas to your taste.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Great for Leftovers: These quesadillas reheat well, so you can enjoy them as leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 quesadillas
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef Quesadillas:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings (optional): sour cream, salsa, guacamole, cilantro

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef: Ground beef is the perfect base for these quesadillas, providing a rich, meaty filling that’s both filling and flavorful.
• Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese ensures the quesadillas are gooey, melty, and delicious.
• Taco Seasoning: The seasoning blend infuses the beef with traditional Mexican flavors, adding just the right amount of spice and depth.
• Flour Tortillas: Soft yet sturdy, flour tortillas hold up well and crisp up nicely when toasted.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Ground Beef Quesadillas:

Prepare the Beef Filling:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion (and bell pepper, if using) to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens, and the beef is fully coated in the seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Quesadillas:

4. Prepare the Tortillas: Place the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of each cheese on one half of each tortilla.
5. Add the Beef Filling: Spoon 1/4 of the beef mixture on top of the cheese on each tortilla. Spread it evenly.
6. Fold the Tortillas: Fold each tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal the edges.

Cook the Quesadillas:

7. Toast the Quesadillas: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat for the remaining quesadillas.
8. Cut and Serve: Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and cut them into wedges. Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

How to Serve Ground Beef Quesadillas

Ground Beef Quesadillas are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Sides: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro for everyone to customize their quesadillas.
• As an Appetizer: Cut the quesadillas into smaller wedges and serve them as a party appetizer or snack.
• With a Drink: Pair with a cold drink like iced tea, margaritas, or a light beer for a refreshing meal.

Additional Tips for Ground Beef Quesadillas

Here are some tips to make sure your Ground Beef Quesadillas turn out perfect every time:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier version, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the tortillas with beef and cheese to ensure they cook evenly and don’t spill out.
• Crisp Tortillas: If you prefer extra-crispy quesadillas, add a little extra butter when toasting.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just heat it up before assembling the quesadillas.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like beans, corn, or jalapeños for additional flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations for Ground Beef Quesadillas

Here are 5 variations you can try for Ground Beef Quesadillas:

• Chicken Quesadillas: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Quesadillas: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Quesadillas: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
• BBQ Beef Quesadillas: Mix in some barbecue sauce with the beef for a tangy twist on the traditional flavor.
• Cheesy Beef Quesadillas: Add extra layers of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, for a more indulgent filling.

Freezing and Storage for Ground Beef Quesadillas

• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the quesadillas but do not cook them. Place the un-cooked quesadillas on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To cook, simply heat from frozen in a skillet until golden and crispy.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave for best results.

Special Equipment for Ground Beef Quesadillas

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Ground Beef Quesadillas easier:

• Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking the beef and toasting the quesadillas.
• Spatula: A wide spatula will help flip the quesadillas without breaking them.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Use these for chopping vegetables and cutting the quesadillas into wedges.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure the taco seasoning and other ingredients precisely.
• Serving Platter – To arrange and serve the finished quesadillas
• Basting Brush – For brushing butter or oil onto the tortillas for a golden, crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions for Ground Beef Quesadillas

1. Can I use a different meat for the filling?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for ground beef.
2. Can I make these quesadillas gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas to make the quesadillas gluten-free.
3. How can I make the quesadillas spicier?
   Add fresh chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or a spicy hot sauce to the beef filling for more heat.
4. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas when ready.
5. Can I freeze leftover quesadillas?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover cooked quesadillas by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag. Reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.

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Conclusion

Ground Beef Quesadillas are a delicious, customizable, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. The crispy tortillas, flavorful beef filling, and gooey cheese make for a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, preparing for a party, or simply craving something savory, these quesadillas will hit the spot every time.

This recipe is as simple as it is satisfying, making it ideal for everything from casual family meals to festive gatherings. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, adding extra spices, veggies, or sauces for an added twist. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them solo, these quesadillas are guaranteed to be a hit.

I’d love to see how your Ground Beef Quesadillas turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!