Description
Warm, crisp tortillas filled with taco-seasoned ground beef and melted cheese – a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp water
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1–2 tbsp butter or neutral oil
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup black beans, 1/2 cup corn, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, pickled jalapeños, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion. Cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it up, until browned and the onion softens.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 30 seconds. Add water and cook 1–2 minutes until the beef looks glossy.
- Lay out tortillas. On half of each tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese, add a scoop of beef, then top with another sprinkle of cheese. Fold over to close.
- Heat a little butter/oil in the skillet. Cook quesadillas for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
- Let them sit for 1 minute, then slice into wedges.
Notes
Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: Mexican