Easy Cheesy Beef Quesadillas

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of ground beef and cheese. Whether it’s in a hearty pasta or a mouthwatering burger, this duo never fails to satisfy. Today, we’re diving into the world of quesadillas, where melty cheese meets savory beef in a crispy tortilla shell. Let’s celebrate this classic pairing with our Easy Cheesy Beef Quesadillas. Perfect for a quick lunch, a snack, or even a casual dinner, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these quesadillas make for a perfect weeknight meal.
• Customizable: Use your favorite cheeses and add extra veggies if you like.
• Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love these cheesy treats.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Colander
• Cutting board
• Knife

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup roughly chopped spinach or baby kale
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro (optional)
• 4 teaspoons unsalted butter, divided
• 8 8-inch flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup shredded havarti
• Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges, to serve

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a spoon until crumbly, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, spinach, garlic, and chili powder. Cook until spinach is wilted. Return the beef to the skillet and mix well. Stir in cilantro if using. Transfer mixture to a bowl and clean the skillet.
3. Combine cheddar and havarti in a bowl. Over medium heat, add ½ teaspoon butter to the skillet. Place a tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons cheese over half, add 1/8 of the beef mixture, and top with another 2 tablespoons cheese. Fold tortilla over filling, cover, and cook for 2 minutes. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and tortilla is golden.
4. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest a minute, and slice into wedges. Repeat for remaining tortillas. Serve with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and lime wedges.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the beef mixture.
• Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed for a consistent melt.
• Let the quesadillas rest before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try swapping beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas when ready to serve. Reheat on a skillet for best results.

What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas or even whole wheat tortillas if you prefer.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven.

Conclusion

These Beef and Cheese Quesadillas are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!