Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

“`html

Are you craving something delicious and satisfying? Look no further than these Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas! Packed with well-seasoned ground beef, loads of gooey cheese, and a perfectly crispy exterior, these quesadillas are simply irresistible. They’re bound to become a favorite in your household, just like they are in ours. If you’re in search of an easy and delightful quesadilla recipe, you’ve come to the right place!

If you know me and follow Girl Heart Food, you know I am a HUGE fan of quesadillas. One reason is that, like grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas are a method of getting more cheese in my pie hole, lol.

On a more serious note, my husband and I love having quesadillas regularly. They’re super easy to make, you can customize them with your favorite fillings, and they always taste amazing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These quesadillas are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of savory beef and melty cheese in a crispy tortilla makes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Plus, they can be easily tailored to your taste preferences with different spices or cheeses.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Non-stick skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (extra lean recommended)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper powder (optional, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted beef broth
• 12 ounces shredded cheese mixture (about 3 cups, such as cheddar, Monterey jack, and mozzarella)
• 6 flour tortillas (7-8 inches in diameter)
• Cooking spray or oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F to keep the quesadillas warm while you cook in batches.
2. In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground beef along with chili powder, chipotle powder, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until it’s cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and beef broth, and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Remove the beef from the skillet and place it in a bowl, draining excess fat if necessary.
6. Divide about 8 ounces (or 2 cups) of cheese among all the tortillas, spreading it on one side.
7. Spread the ground beef over the cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese (1 cup or 4 ounces) on top.
8. Fold each tortilla into a half-moon shape.
9. Working in batches, spray the pan with cooking spray and cook the quesadillas over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Turn carefully to avoid burning.
10. As you finish each batch, place the cooked quesadillas on a baking sheet in the oven to keep warm.
11. Cut each quesadilla into halves or quarters and serve with salsa, guacamole, and/or sour cream. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure an even cook.
• If your tortillas are larger or smaller, adjust the amount of filling and cheese as needed.
• Keep an eye on the quesadillas while cooking to avoid burning them.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Try different cheese combinations to find your perfect flavor blend.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These quesadillas are a hearty meal with a wonderful balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas when ready to eat.

How can I make them spicier? Add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños in the filling.

In conclusion, these Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a must-try for anyone who loves a quick, cheesy, and satisfying meal. I invite you to give this recipe a go and let us know how it turns out. Share your experiences and any creative twists you tried in the comments below!

“`