Description
Looking for a fast, satisfying, and family-approved meal? These Ground Beef Quesadillas are the answer! Loaded with seasoned beef and melty cheese, all tucked inside a crispy, golden tortilla, they’re the ultimate comfort food. Whether you need a quick dinner, an easy lunch, or a delicious snack, these quesadillas come together in no time and always hit the spot.
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Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp chili powder
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½ tsp cumin
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ cup tomato sauce or salsa
For the Quesadillas:
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8 medium flour tortillas
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for cooking
Optional Toppings & Fillings:
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Diced tomatoes
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Chopped cilantro
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Sliced jalapeños
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Avocado or guacamole
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Salsa or pico de gallo
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Beef Filling
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled.
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Drain any excess grease.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add the tomato sauce (or salsa) and simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
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Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
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Lay a tortilla flat on a plate.
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Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla.
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Add a spoonful or two of the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
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Sprinkle a little more cheese on top of the beef for extra meltiness.
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Fold the tortilla in half over the filling.
Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas
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Heat 1 tsp of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Repeat with the remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
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Let the quesadillas cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice into wedges.
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Serve with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces.
Notes
Drain Excess Grease – Keeps the filling from making the tortillas soggy.
Use Medium Heat – Ensures crispy outsides and melty cheese inside.
Don’t Overstuff – Too much filling can make the quesadillas hard to flip.
Press Gently While Cooking – Use a spatula to lightly press for even browning.
Customize Freely – Add sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or even beans!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex