Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers classic Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal effort. The seasoned ground beef is flavorful and juicy, perfectly complemented by the blend of gooey cheeses. Ready in under 30 minutes, these quesadillas are great for busy weeknights, lunch, or even game day snacks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ¾ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ½ tablespoon chopped cilantro
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Oil to grease the pan

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and dried oregano to the beef. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro.
4. Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil.
5. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the tortilla.
6. Spread about ⅙ of the beef mixture evenly over the cheese. Top with another ½ cup of cheese, then cover with a second tortilla.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese has melted.
8. Remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute before slicing into wedges. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 quesadillas (serves 3-6 depending on appetite)
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Include diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor and crunch.
• Cheese swap: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Spicy: Add hot sauce or extra chili powder to the beef mixture.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with cooked black beans or plant-based meat.
• Serve with: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover quesadillas wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and crispy, or microwave briefly (though the skillet method preserves crispness best).

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, but flour tortillas are easier to flip and hold fillings better.

Can I prepare the beef filling ahead of time?

Yes, cook and refrigerate the beef mixture for up to 3 days before assembling quesadillas.

How do I keep quesadillas from falling apart?

Use enough cheese as “glue” and don’t overfill with beef.

Can I freeze quesadillas?

Yes, freeze cooked quesadillas wrapped tightly and reheat in a skillet or oven.

What dipping sauces go well with quesadillas?

Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or a creamy chipotle sauce.

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely, it makes a delicious variation.

How do I make quesadillas crispy?

Cook them in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat and flip carefully.

Are quesadillas gluten-free?

Not with flour tortillas; use gluten-free tortillas if needed.

Can I make quesadillas in the oven?

Yes, bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to store leftover beef mixture?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal perfect for any time of day. The savory seasoned beef paired with gooey cheeses and crispy tortillas makes them a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for delicious homemade quesadillas.

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