Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadilla Recipe

Beef quesadillas are a beloved Mexican dish that combines tender, seasoned ground beef with melty cheese, all tucked inside a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or even a satisfying snack, beef quesadillas are versatile, easy to make, and loved by both kids and adults. This recipe walks you through creating the ultimate beef quesadilla, packed with flavor and customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide ensures your quesadillas turn out golden, crispy, and delicious every time.

 Key Benefits for beef quesadilla

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy schedules, these quesadillas come together in less than 30 minutes          
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, beans, or spices to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover ground beef or veggies for a no-waste meal.
• Portable: Great for packed lunches or on-the-go meals.
• Balanced Meal Option: Beef quesadillas can be part of a healthy diet when made with lean protein, whole grains, and plenty of veggies. For tips on building a balanced meal, check out the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Healthy Eating Plate.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 servings of beef quesadillas:

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning (or store-bought)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
• 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)

For Assembling the Quesadillas:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a pre-mixed Mexican blend).
• Cooking spray or butter for frying

For Serving (Optional):

• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

how to make the best ground beef quesadillas recipe

Follow these simple steps to make perfect beef quesadillas:

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma.
4. Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned and no traces of pink remain.
5. Stir in tomato paste, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. If using, add black beans and corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

1. Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla.
2. Add a generous layer of the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
3. Sprinkle another 1/4 cup cheese over the beef.
4. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

1. Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking spray or butter.
2. Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 4: Serve

1. Cut each quesadilla into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
2. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips and Variations for beef quesadillas recipe

Creating the perfect beef quesadilla is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some expert tips and creative variations to elevate your quesadilla game:

Pro Tips:

1. Pre-Toast Your Tortillas: For an extra crispy exterior, lightly toast the tortillas in a dry skillet before adding the filling. This step prevents sogginess and adds a delightful crunch.
2. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Shred your cheese at home for a smoother, meltier texture.
3. Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can make the quesadilla difficult to flip and may cause the filling to spill out. Stick to a moderate amount for the best results.
4. Medium Heat is Key: Cooking quesadillas over medium heat ensures the tortilla crisps up without burning, and the cheese has enough time to melt evenly.
5. Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the quesadillas sit for a minute before cutting. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to slice.

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based ground meat. Add black beans, corn, and extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili powder to the beef mixture for those who love a bit of heat.
3. Breakfast Quesadilla: Turn your quesadilla into a morning treat by adding scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage to the filling.
4. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Oaxaca, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for unique flavor profiles.
5. Add Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach, arugula, or kale for a nutritious boost. The greens wilt slightly when heated, adding a subtle freshness.
6. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste or texture.
7. Air Fryer Method: For a healthier alternative, cook your quesadillas in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

These tips and variations ensure your beef quesadillas are always exciting and tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or trying something new, these ideas will keep your quesadillas fresh and delicious!

Serving Suggestions for ground beef quesadilla

Beef quesadillas are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Here are some creative and delicious ideas to make your quesadilla meal even more enjoyable:

1. With Dips and Toppings:

• Classic Dips: Serve your quesadillas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. These add a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy filling.
• Spicy Options: Offer a spicy salsa or chipotle mayo for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Fresh Toppings: Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

2. As a Complete Meal:

• With Sides: Pair your quesadillas with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple corn salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Salad Combo: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the quesadillas.
• Soup Pairing: Enjoy with a bowl of tortilla soup or black bean soup for a cozy, comforting dinner.

3. For Parties and Gatherings:

• Finger Food: Cut the quesadillas into small wedges and arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces. They make perfect party appetizers or game-day snacks.
• Build-Your-Own Quesadilla Bar: Set up a DIY quesadilla station with various fillings, cheeses, and toppings. Let guests assemble and cook their own creations for a fun, interactive experience.

4. For Breakfast or Brunch:

• Breakfast Quesadillas: Add scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage to the filling for a morning twist. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or hash browns.
• Brunch Spread: Include quesadillas as part of a brunch buffet alongside pancakes, waffles, and fresh juices.

5. For Kids:

• Kid-Friendly Platter: Cut the quesadillas into fun shapes using cookie cutters and serve with mild salsa or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Lunchbox Idea: Pack smaller quesadilla wedges in a lunchbox with a side of veggie sticks and a small container of guacamole or sour cream.

6. For a Light Meal:

• With Veggies: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple avocado salad for a lighter, balanced meal.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the beef filling to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender for a low-carb alternative.

7. For a Festive Touch:

• Mexican-Themed Dinner: Create a full Mexican feast with quesadillas as the star, accompanied by tacos, enchiladas, and churros for dessert.
• Cinco de Mayo Celebration: Celebrate with a colorful spread featuring quesadillas, margaritas (or mocktails), and festive decorations.

No matter how you choose to serve them, beef quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to any meal or occasion. Get creative with your presentation and enjoy the delicious possibilities!

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beef quesadilla recipe

Jessica

With simple step-by-step instructions, you can create the ultimate cheesy ground beef quesadilla that are sure to become a household favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning homemade or store-bought
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup black beans optional
• ¼ cup corn kernels optional
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
• Cooking spray or butter for frying

Optional Toppings:

• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

Instructions

 

Cook the Beef Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
• Stir in tomato paste, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• If using, add black beans and corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Quesadillas:

• Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded cheese on one half.
• Add a generous layer of the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
• Sprinkle another 1/4 cup cheese over the beef.
• Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.

Cook the Quesadillas:

• Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking spray or butter.
• Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Serve:

• Cut each quesadilla into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
• Serve warm with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

Conclusion

Beef quesadillas are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. With a perfect balance of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a party, these quesadillas are a guaranteed hit. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and toppings to make them your own. Enjoy!

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