Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

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🥘 Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

  • Prep time: 10 mins

  • Cook time: 15 mins

  • Servings: 4 large quesadillas

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) Lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)

  • 4 large Flour tortillas (burrito size)

  • 2 cups Shredded cheese (Mexican blend, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack)

  • 1/2 Yellow onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp Taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, and paprika)

  • 1/4 cup Beef broth or water (to keep the meat moist)

  • 1 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter (for frying)

  • Optional: Pickled jalapeños, cilantro, or diced tomatoes.

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions. Break the meat apart with a spatula until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

  2. Season: Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the broth/water and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the liquid has reduced but the meat remains “saucy.” Remove from heat.

  3. Assemble: Clean the skillet or use a griddle. Place one tortilla down. Sprinkle a layer of cheese over the entire surface. Spread 1/4 of the beef mixture over one half of the tortilla.

  4. Fold & Crisp: Fold the tortilla in half over the filling. Lightly grease the pan with oil or butter.

  5. Cook: Grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a deep golden brown crust and fully melted cheese.

  6. Serve: Let them rest for 1 minute (so the cheese sets) before slicing into wedges with a pizza cutter.

💡 Pro Tips & Notes

  • The Cheese Barrier: Always put cheese on both the bottom and the top of the beef. This acts as “glue” to keep the tortilla stuck to the filling.

  • Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to pile on the beef, but overstuffing makes it impossible to flip without a “beef-splosion.”

  • Keep it Crispy: If making several, keep the finished quesadillas on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F). Putting them on a plate will make the bottom soggy from steam.

📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Category Amount
Calories 540 kcal
Protein 32g
Total Fat 30g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 2g

✨ Benefits

  • High Protein: Excellent for muscle recovery and keeping you full longer.

  • Iron-Rich: Ground beef is a great source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body.

  • Versatile: It’s a “fridge-clearing” meal; you can toss in leftover peppers, corn, or beans effortlessly.

❓ Common Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: You can prep the beef filling 2–3 days in advance. I don’t recommend assembling and cooking them until you’re ready to eat, as the tortilla loses its crunch in the fridge.

Q: What are the best dipping sauces?

A: Sour cream, chunky salsa, or a zesty guacamole are the classics. For a kick, try mixing sriracha with mayo!

Q: How do I prevent the tortilla from burning?

A: Keep the heat at medium. If the heat is too high, the tortilla will char before the cheese inside has a chance to melt.

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