The savory goodness of spiced ground beef combined with melted cheese makes these Ground Beef Quesadillas an irresistible meal. Each bite offers a crispy tortilla exterior with a gooey, flavor packed filling.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these quesadillas are quick to make and customizable. Add jalapeños for extra heat, or toss in some fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Whether served alone or with sides like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or butter for cooking
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a clean skillet over medium heat, place one tortilla in the pan. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese on one side of the tortilla.
- Add a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef over the cheese, then top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Slice quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ground beef quesadillas are a classic Tex Mex dish that combines seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. This versatile meal is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or party appetizers. With their savory flavors and satisfying texture, ground beef quesadillas are a go to option for those seeking a quick yet delicious meal.
History and Origin
The quesadilla has its roots in Mexican cuisine, dating back to the 16th century when Spanish settlers introduced dairy products to indigenous diets. Traditionally, quesadillas were filled with cheese and cooked on a comal (a flat griddle). Over time, the dish evolved to include various fillings such as meats, vegetables, and spices. Ground beef quesadillas have become a popular fusion dish, blending Mexican flavors with American-style comfort food.
Why Ground Beef Quesadillas are Popular
Ground beef quesadillas stand out due to their simplicity and adaptability. The rich, seasoned beef pairs beautifully with melted cheese, creating a savory, indulgent flavor. They are incredibly versatile you can customize the seasoning, add extra ingredients, or even swap the protein for chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives. Their easy preparation makes them ideal for those seeking a fast yet satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Quesadilla
To achieve the best flavor and texture, follow these expert tips:
- Choose Quality Beef: Using lean ground beef (around 85% lean) provides rich flavor without excessive grease. For extra depth, consider blending ground beef with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Melt the Cheese Properly: Opt for a combination of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. Mixing cheeses enhances both flavor and texture, ensuring a gooey interior that binds the ingredients together.
- Cook with Medium Heat: Cooking quesadillas on medium heat ensures that the tortillas crisp up perfectly without burning. A light coating of butter or cooking spray adds a golden finish.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance your quesadillas with additions like diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños. Adding fresh cilantro, lime juice, or avocado can elevate the dish even further.
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling your quesadillas can lead to spillage and uneven cooking. Keep your fillings well-balanced for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Ground beef quesadillas are delicious on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides elevates the experience. Consider serving them with:
- Salsa: Fresh pico de gallo or spicy salsa verde adds a tangy contrast to the rich beef and cheese.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a cool, refreshing balance.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream offers a smooth, tangy addition.
- Mexican Rice or Beans: These sides make the meal heartier and more satisfying.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with cilantro-lime dressing balances the richness of the quesadillas.
Variations and Customizations
Ground beef quesadillas are highly adaptable. Here are a few creative ways to customize your dish:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
- Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Experiment with smoked gouda, pepper jack, or queso fresco for unique flavors.
- Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to create breakfast-style quesadillas.
- Tex-Mex Style: Mix in black beans, corn, and avocado for a Tex Mex inspired flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ground beef quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated effectively. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side to maintain crispness. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave them for a faster option (though this may reduce the tortilla’s crispness).
Nutritional Benefits
While ground beef quesadillas are indulgent, they can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs. Using lean beef, whole wheat tortillas, and reduced-fat cheese creates a healthier version. Adding vegetables like spinach, peppers, or tomatoes boosts the nutrient content, making the dish more balanced.
Conclusion
Ground beef quesadillas are a beloved Tex Mex classic that offers bold flavors, simple preparation, and endless customization options. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, entertaining friends, or simply satisfying a late-night craving, this dish is sure to impress. By following the tips and serving suggestions mentioned above, you can create a memorable and mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.