Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Filling:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Prepare the Tortillas: Place the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of each cheese on one half of each tortilla.
- Add the Beef Filling: Spoon 1/4 of the beef mixture on top of the cheese on each tortilla. Spread it evenly.
- Fold the Tortillas: Fold each tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal the edges.
Cook the Quesadillas:
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g