Ground Beef Quesadillas

A comforting and satisfying dish, ground beef quesadillas combine seasoned meat, melty cheese, and crisp tortillas to create a flavorful meal that works well for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack. This versatile recipe can be easily customized with additional fillings and seasonings, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground beef quesadillas are quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for feeding the whole family. The combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese inside a golden, crispy tortilla delivers a restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. You can serve them as a standalone meal, pair them with a salad, or add sides like rice and beans for a more complete plate.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Tortillas (flour preferred for flexibility)

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Olive oil or butter for cooking

• Salt and pepper

• Optional seasonings (paprika, cumin, chili powder)

directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Stir well to combine.

6. Remove the beef from the skillet and wipe the skillet clean.

7. Place a tortilla in the skillet over medium heat, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then spread a layer of cooked beef over half of the tortilla. Add more cheese if desired.

8. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently with a spatula. Cook until golden and crispy on one side, then flip and repeat.

9. Remove from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Quesadillas: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

• Vegetable Boost: Include bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in the filling.

• Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.

• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

storage/reheating

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the tortillas soggy.

FAQs

How do I prevent quesadillas from getting soggy?

Use a moderate amount of filling and ensure the skillet is preheated so the tortillas crisp quickly.

Can I make ground beef quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas just before cooking.

What type of tortilla works best?

Flour tortillas are ideal for flexibility and even browning, but corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.

Can I freeze quesadillas?

Yes, cooked quesadillas can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

How can I make them healthier?

Use lean ground beef, whole wheat tortillas, and plenty of vegetables in the filling.

Do I need to drain the beef?

If your ground beef has excess fat after cooking, drain it to prevent a greasy filling.

Can I cook quesadillas in the oven?

Yes, assemble them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

What cheese melts the best for quesadillas?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella are excellent melting cheeses.

How do I keep quesadillas warm for serving?

Place them in a warm oven (200°F / 95°C) on a wire rack until ready to serve.

Can I add beans to the filling?

Yes, black beans or refried beans pair well with ground beef for extra protein and flavor.

Conclusion

Ground beef quesadillas are a fast, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any taste preference. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, they make an excellent choice for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Whether you enjoy them plain, spicy, or loaded with vegetables, these quesadillas are sure to become a regular on your menu

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