Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a warm, crispy quesadilla filled with gooey, melted cheese and perfectly seasoned ground beef. It's a simple pleasure that never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe one evening while trying to use up leftover taco meat, and it quickly became a staple in our household. These cheesy ground beef quesadillas are easy to whip up, budget-friendly, and a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into the details so you can make them tonight!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Get ready to make your new favorite weeknight dinner! These quesadillas are so delicious and satisfying that they’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a meal ready in under 30 minutes—a lifesaver for busy evenings.

These quesadillas are wonderfully versatile. You can tweak the fillings to suit your taste or to use up whatever you have on hand, making them perfect for picky eaters or fridge-cleanout nights.

Lastly, the crispy, golden tortilla encasing the cheesy, savory filling creates an unbeatable texture and flavor combination. Whether served on their own or alongside a salad, salsa, or sour cream, these quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s move on to the simple ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these quesadillas lies in their simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ground Beef is the star of this recipe. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to keep the filling flavorful without being too greasy. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.

Cheese is essential for that melty, gooey filling. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work beautifully here. For an extra kick, try pepper jack cheese.

Tortillas are the base of any good quesadilla. Flour tortillas are the most common choice, as they crisp up nicely and hold the fillings well. Corn tortillas can also work, though they’re smaller and a bit more delicate.

Seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder bring the beef to life. If you enjoy a little heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Optional Add-ins include diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a finishing touch.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a good skillet and a spatula for flipping.

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe

Making these quesadillas is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way.

Start by cooking your ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.

If you’re adding veggies like diced onions or bell peppers, toss them into the skillet and sauté until softened. This step adds a layer of flavor and texture to the filling.

Next, heat a large, clean skillet over medium heat. Lay a flour tortilla flat in the pan, then sprinkle half with a generous layer of cheese, followed by a scoop of the beef mixture. Add any additional toppings you like, then sprinkle more cheese on top before folding the tortilla in half.

Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted. Transfer to a cutting board and let it cool slightly before slicing into wedges.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have a stack of perfectly cheesy, crispy quesadillas ready to serve!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), these quesadillas store beautifully.

For the fridge, wrap cooled quesadilla wedges in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the quesadillas cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispy texture, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

These quesadillas are wonderfully adaptable to suit your preferences.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for black beans or a mixture of beans and corn seasoned with the same spices.

Craving extra veggies? Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the filling. Their flavors blend seamlessly with the beef and cheese.

If you’re a fan of heat, try adding sliced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling.

For a breakfast twist, replace the beef with scrambled eggs and add cooked bacon or sausage for a hearty morning meal.

Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavor profiles. A smoky gouda or tangy feta can take these quesadillas to the next level.

Now that you’re equipped with all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself to these irresistible cheesy ground beef quesadillas. Enjoy!

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