Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food. With seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy golden exterior, this dish is quick to make, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or preparing a snack, these quesadillas are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender beef, cheese, and perfectly cooked tortillas will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth or water
• Flour tortillas (7-8 inches)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the beef.
3. Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in tomato paste, followed by the beef broth or water. Let the mixture absorb the liquid and then remove from heat.
4. Lay out tortillas and sprinkle a layer of cheese on one half of each.
5. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture, followed by another layer of cheese.
6. Fold each tortilla into a half-moon shape.
7. Heat a greased pan over medium heat and cook the quesadillas in batches until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Flip gently to avoid spilling the filling.
8. Once cooked, cut into halves or quarters and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn to the beef filling for added flavor and texture.
• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to give your quesadillas some heat.
• Different meats: Try substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until the cheese melts and the quesadilla is warm. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Keep in mind that they may not hold up as well as flour tortillas and can break more easily.

Can I freeze the quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze these quesadillas before cooking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, cook directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.

What type of cheese is best for quesadillas?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella are excellent choices due to their melting qualities. You can also use a cheese blend or experiment with cheeses like Gouda or Havarti.

How can I avoid burning the quesadillas?

Cook the quesadillas on medium-low heat, flipping carefully to ensure the cheese melts without burning the tortilla.

Can I make these quesadillas vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with beans, vegetables, or even tofu to make these quesadillas vegetarian.

How do I make quesadillas extra crispy?

To get an extra crispy crust, use a little more oil when cooking and press the quesadilla down gently with a spatula as it cooks.

What toppings go well with quesadillas?

Toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and pico de gallo complement these quesadillas perfectly. You can also add a fresh salad or Mexican street corn on the side.

How do I store the cooked quesadillas?

Place cooked quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use pre-cooked beef for the filling?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked beef or leftover roast beef if you’re short on time. Just reheat and season to taste.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Be sure to fold the tortilla carefully, ensuring the cheese and beef are well contained inside. You can also use a little extra cheese to “seal” the edges.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are the perfect quick meal that’s full of flavor and satisfying enough to be a weeknight dinner or snack. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’ll surely become a staple in your kitchen. Add your favorite toppings, enjoy them fresh or reheated, and you’ve got a versatile meal that everyone will love!