Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

These Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual snack! Imagine crispy golden tortillas filled with savory seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a hint of corn for sweetness. This recipe is simple to customize and comes together in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Customizable: The ground beef filling is packed with flavor, and you can easily customize the toppings to your liking.
• Kid-Friendly: Quesadillas are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to use different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Or other cooking oil, used to sauté the onion and ground beef.
• Onion: Diced and adds a savory base.
• Ground beef: 90/10 is preferred, but 80/20 can also be used.
• Taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for a classic taco flavor.
• Garlic powder, paprika, salt: Additional seasonings to enhance the flavor.
• Tomato paste: Adds a rich tomato flavor.
• Salsa: Use your favorite tomato salsa.
• Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Flour tortillas: 8-inch tortillas are recommended.
• Cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese: Shredded and adds a melty, cheesy filling.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Step 1: Cook the Onion and Ground Beef

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and lightly browned. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 2: Season the Ground Beef

Return the skillet to low heat. Add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, tomato paste, salsa, and frozen corn. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the corn is warmed through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas

Place a tortilla on a cutting board. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of cheese on half of the tortilla. Top with a few spoonfuls (about ¼ cup) of the ground beef mixture, then sprinkle with another 2 tablespoons of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a clean skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking oil. Place a quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining quesadillas, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

Step 5: Serve

Slice each quesadilla in half into triangles and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a leaner ground beef: 90/10 ground beef is preferred to minimize grease. If using 80/20, drain the grease well.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the quesadillas in batches to ensure even browning.
• Use a good quality cheese: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts well and adds a delicious flavor.
• Customize the fillings: Add other ingredients, such as black beans, bell peppers, or jalapenos.
• Use a preheated pan: Make sure your pan is hot before adding the quesadillas to get a nice golden brown color.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Serve with your favorite salsa or pico de gallo for dipping.
• Sour Cream or Guacamole: Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of Mexican rice for a more substantial meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Make Ahead

You can cook the ground beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the quesadillas.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can! Chicken, turkey, or vegetarian crumbles are great alternatives to ground beef.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can be used.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can! Add chopped jalapeños or a spicier salsa to the filling.

This Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and customizable way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, minimal cleanup, and versatile ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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