Easy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Learn how to make delicious Ground Beef Quesadillas in minutes with this simple recipe. Perfectly seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas – a family favorite!

If you prefer seafood, our Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is another great option that incorporates bold flavors similar to the steak quesadilla.

Ingredients Needed for Ground Beef Quesadilla

To create the perfect Ground Beef Quesadilla, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need along with their measurements to ensure your quesadillas turn out just right:

1. Ground Beef – 1 lb (450g)
   • Opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 for the best flavor and texture. This amount will typically make 4 to 6 quesadillas, depending on the size of the tortillas.
2. Flour Tortillas – 4 to 6 medium-sized (8-inch) tortillas
   • Flour tortillas are preferred for their flexibility and ability to crisp up nicely when cooked.
3. Shredded Cheese – 2 cups (about 200g)
   • A combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is ideal, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like pepper jack for a bit of spice.
4. Olive Oil or Butter – 2 tablespoons
   • You’ll need this for cooking the quesadillas and giving them a golden, crispy texture.
5. Chopped Onion – ½ medium onion (about ½ cup)Onions add a sweet and savory flavor. You can sauté them with the beef for extra richness.
6. Chopped Bell Pepper (Optional) – 1 small bell pepper
7. Use any color of bell pepper to add sweetness and color to your quesadillas.
8. Garlic Cloves – 2 cloves, minced
   • Fresh garlic enhances the flavor of the ground beef and spices.
9. Ground Cumin – 1 teaspoon Cumin adds a smoky, earthy flavor to your quesadillas.
10. Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon Chili powder gives a subtle heat and deepens the flavor profile.
11. Paprika – ½ teaspoon
    • For a mild, smoky flavor.
12. Salt and Pepper – To taste
    • Adjust according to your preference.
13. Fresh Cilantro (Optional) – 2 tablespoons, chopped
    • Fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top or mixed in for an added fresh taste.
14. Sour Cream or Guacamole (Optional, for serving)
    • These are perfect for dipping and enhancing the overall taste of your quesadillas.

How to Prepare Ground Beef for Quesadillas

Preparing the ground beef is one of the most important steps in making delicious ground beef quesadillas. Follow these simple steps to ensure the meat is cooked to perfection, full of flavor, and ready for your quesadilla filling:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
2. Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t clump together.
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the quesadilla from being greasy.

2: Add Onions and Garlic

1. Add chopped onions (½ medium onion) and minced garlic (2 cloves) to the skillet with the ground beef while it’s still cooking.
2. Sauté the mixture for about 3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.

3: Season the Beef

1. Add spices: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices. Let the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to fully release their flavors into the meat.

4: Optional Additions

1. If you like a bit of extra flavor or texture, you can add chopped bell peppers (1 small bell pepper) at this point and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften.
2. If you prefer a spicier mix, add some finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.

5: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the beef mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a bit more salt, chili powder, or cumin depending on your taste preferences.

6: Ready for Assembly

Once the beef is fully seasoned and cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Your ground beef mixture is now ready to be used as the filling for your quesadillas.

This preparation ensures your ground beef is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, providing the foundation for a delicious quesadilla. The next step is assembling your quesadilla, where you’ll combine this tasty beef mixture with cheese and tortillas!

If you’re looking for more quesadilla recipes, try our Air Fryer Quesadilla for a healthier, crispy alternative.”

Assembling Your Ground Beef Quesadilla

Once your ground beef is seasoned and ready, it’s time to assemble the perfect Ground Beef Quesadilla. Here’s how to create a delicious, cheesy quesadilla with layers of flavor:

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area

1. Set up your tortillas: Place 4 to 6 medium-sized (8-inch) flour tortillas on a clean surface. Make sure they are flat and easy to work with.
2. Shredded cheese: Have your 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack work well together) ready to go. You can also have additional toppings, like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa, on hand.

2: Add the Ground Beef Filling

1. Spread the beef mixture: Take a generous amount of your seasoned ground beef (about ¼ to ⅓ cup per quesadilla) and evenly spread it over one side of each tortilla. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out while cooking.

3: Add the Cheese

1. Top with cheese: Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese (roughly ⅓ to ½ cup) over the beef mixture. The cheese will melt and hold the filling together, adding a creamy texture.

4: Layer Additional Toppings (Optional)

1. Add extra ingredients: If you’re using other toppings, like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or fresh cilantro, sprinkle them over the cheese. You can also add a little extra heat with jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier quesadilla.

5: Fold the Tortilla

1. Fold the tortilla in half: Carefully fold the tortilla over the beef and cheese mixture to create a half-moon shape. Press gently to secure the filling and keep it in place.

6: Ready for Cooking

Now that your quesadilla is assembled, it’s time to cook it. You can choose to cook your quesadilla in a skillet or on a grill, depending on your preference. Both methods will result in a crispy, golden exterior and melted cheese inside.

The key to a perfectly assembled quesadilla is balancing the right amount of filling with enough cheese to bind it all together, while leaving space around the edges for a crispy finish. Once you’ve mastered this assembly, you’ll be able to create perfectly stuffed quesadillas every time!

Pair your steak quesadilla with a refreshing side like our Lemon Shrimp and Bean Stew or serve it alongside a tangy Shrimp Scampi to complete the meal.

Ground Beef Quesadilla Pairings

To elevate your Ground Beef Quesadilla experience, pairing it with the right sides and beverages can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some delicious and complementary options to serve alongside your quesadilla:

Step 1: Best Dips for Ground Beef Quesadillas

1. Guacamole

• Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, guacamole is a classic pairing with any Mexican dish, including Ground Beef Quesadillas. The coolness of the avocado balances the savory and spicy flavors of the beef filling.
• To make it extra special, you can add some diced tomatoes, red onions, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

2. Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream is a fantastic way to add a bit of tanginess that complements the richness of the cheese and beef. You can also add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

5. Pico de Gallo

• Fresh and vibrant, pico de gallo is a chunky salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime. It provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the quesadilla and adds a zesty kick.

4.Salsa (Red or Green)

• Whether you go for a mild red salsa or a spicy green salsa made with tomatillos, salsa brings a bright, tangy, and slightly spicy element that enhances the flavors of the quesadilla. Opt for a chunky salsa for texture or a smooth salsa for a more liquid dip.

6. Queso Fundido

• For cheese lovers, queso fundido is a melted cheese dip, sometimes with chorizo or peppers. It’s indulgent and pairs wonderfully with the crispy, cheesy quesadilla.

2: Drinks that Complement Ground Beef Quesadillas

1. Lime Margaritas

• If you’re in the mood for something more festive, a lime margarita is an excellent pairing. The tangy, citrusy drink with a touch of tequila adds a zesty contrast to the savory quesadillas.

2. Iced Tea

• For a non-alcoholic option, freshly brewed iced tea with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing balance to the meal. It’s a light drink that won’t overpower the flavors of the quesadilla.

3. Agua Fresca (Fruit Waters)

• A sweet, refreshing agua fresca made from fruits like watermelon, mango, or pineapple is a wonderful drink to serve with your quesadilla. The fruity flavors complement the savory fillings and provide a sweet contrast.

1. Soda (Coca-Cola or Jarritos)

• Classic sodas like Coca-Cola or the fruity Mexican Jarritos are always a hit with quesadillas. The sweetness and bubbles of the soda provide a perfect contrast to the savory and spiced flavor profile of the quesadilla.

Step 3: Side Dishes for a Complete Meal

1. Mexican Rice

• Fluffy, savory Mexican rice is a filling and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with quesadillas. It adds texture and a mild contrast to the bold flavors of the beef.

1. Refried Beans

• Creamy refried beans, either black or pinto, make for a great side. The beans are rich and slightly earthy, offering a hearty complement to the quesadilla.

1. Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions can be a great addition. They add a smoky flavor and a bit of crunch to balance the richness of the quesadilla.

1. Corn on the Cob (Elote)

• Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a fun and flavorful side that’s a crowd-pleaser. The sweet corn, smothered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime, is a fantastic complement to the savory and cheesy quesadilla.

By pairing your Ground Beef Quesadilla with these tasty sides and drinks, you’ll create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you keep it light with a refreshing salsa and iced tea or go all out with queso fundido and margaritas, the options are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions about Ground Beef Quesadillas

Here are some of the most common questions people have when making or enjoying Ground Beef Quesadillas. These answers will help you perfect your quesadilla-making skills and avoid any potential mistakes:

H3: How do I keep my quesadilla from falling apart?

To prevent your quesadilla from falling apart, make sure to:

• Not overstuff the tortilla with filling. A heaping spoonful of filling is perfect, but too much can cause it to spill out.
• Press the tortilla gently but firmly after folding to keep the edges sealed.
• Cook on medium heat to give the cheese time to melt and bind the filling together before the tortilla gets too crispy.

H3: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. While it won’t have the same rich flavor as ground beef, you can enhance its taste by adding extra spices or using a fattier ground turkey mix.

H3: Can I prepare a ground beef quesadilla ahead of time?

Yes, you can make your ground beef quesadillas ahead of time. Assemble the quesadillas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For freezing, wrap each assembled quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to eat, simply cook them from frozen in a skillet or oven.

H3: How do I make a quesadilla crispy without burning it?

To achieve a crispy quesadilla without burning it:

• Cook over medium heat to give the cheese time to melt without overcooking the tortilla.
• Use a small amount of oil or butter in the pan, ensuring it covers the surface evenly.
• Flip the quesadilla carefully using a spatula to ensure both sides cook evenly.

H3: What’s the best cheese for ground beef quesadillas?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both is ideal for ground beef quesadillas. These cheeses melt beautifully and provide the perfect balance of flavor. If you like a spicier kick, try using pepper jack cheese.

H3: Can I make a vegetarian quesadilla with ground beef alternatives?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives like soy crumbles, lentils, or black beans. Just make sure to season them well to mimic the rich, savory flavor of the beef.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Quesadillas are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit any taste. With the right combination of ingredients, seasoning, and cooking techniques, you can create a mouthwatering quesadilla that’s crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. Whether you enjoy them with classic toppings like guacamole and sour cream or prefer to pair them with a refreshing drink, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit at any meal.

By following the tips and tricks provided, you’ll be able to craft perfect Ground Beef Quesadillas every time, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and pairings to make this dish your own!

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