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If you’re looking for a dish that combines the richness of beef with the gooey goodness of melted cheese, then look no further than our Beef and Cheese Quesadillas. This delightful recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun family dinner. Get ready to experience a taste explosion in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Beef and Cheese Quesadillas are a true crowd-pleaser. The flavorful ground beef perfectly seasoned with onions, garlic, and chili powder meets the melt-in-your-mouth blend of cheddar and havarti cheese. Plus, the addition of spinach or baby kale provides a hint of freshness and a nutritional boost. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these quesadillas are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Cutting board
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
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crumbly, about 5 minutes. Drain the beef in a colander and wipe out the skillet.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add the vegetable or olive oil. Add the chopped onion, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, spinach, garlic, and chili powder, cooking for another minute until the spinach is wilted. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet, mixing well. Add cilantro if desired, then transfer the mixture to a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar and havarti cheese.
- In the skillet, melt a half teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the pan, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture over half of the tortilla, and add 1/8 of the beef mixture. Top with another 2 tablespoons of cheese.
- Fold the tortilla over the filling, cover the pan, and cook for about 2 minutes until the bottom is golden and the cheese begins to melt. Flip the quesadilla and cook uncovered until fully melted and browned, 2 to 3 minutes more.
- Remove the quesadilla to a cutting board, let it sit for a minute, then slice into wedges. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Serve with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and lime wedges.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the beef is cooked thoroughly and drained well to prevent soggy quesadillas.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the quesadillas to ensure even browning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to match your spice preference.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a spicier kick, add some jalapeños to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the beef for black beans or sautéed mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite blend.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas when you’re ready to serve.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or provolone.
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple yet delicious recipe for Beef and Cheese Quesadillas that will surely delight your taste buds. I invite you to give this recipe a try and share your experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to serve them up with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
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YUMM!!!
TYMM!!!