Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

These ground beef quesadillas make a quick, tasty weeknight dinner. They fill tortillas with seasoned beef and melty cheese and crisp up in a hot pan in minutes. You can make the filling ahead and assemble the quesadillas fast when hunger hits. The spices are simple but warm, and tomato paste adds depth while a cheese blend keeps each bite gooey and bright. Kids and adults enjoy these, and they pair well with a fresh salad, salsa, or plain yogurt for dipping. The recipe uses common pantry spices and a simple cook method so you do not need special tools. It stays flexible: try different cheeses or add a handful of chopped peppers if you want more color. The steps below show how to cook the beef, dress the tortillas, and get a crisp golden shell with fully melted cheese inside. This dish is forgiving and fast, so it works when time is short but you still want a warm, filling meal. Read on for clear steps, tips to get the best melt, and safe ways to store leftovers. Follow the simple steps and you will have golden, cheesy quesadillas that taste great right away or after reheating every time.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

These quesadillas give big flavor with little work. Cooked beef with warm spices fills soft tortillas and melts cheese for a rich, gooey bite. You get a crisp outside and a soft, cheesy center in one pan. The recipe uses common items, so it fits into busy nights or last minute meals. You can change the cheese or add veg to suit your mood. It feeds a small family or makes easy packs for one. The steps are clear, and the cook time is short. Leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy them again the next day with a smile.

How to Make Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 450 grams ground beef, preferably 80 percent lean
• 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 half teaspoon salt
• 1 quarter teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons water
• 8 medium flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat a wide skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Once warm, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it gently with a spoon. Let it brown without rushing. This step builds flavor and keeps the beef juicy.

2. Once the beef has lost its pink color, sprinkle in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the meat evenly. Add tomato paste and water, then reduce the heat slightly. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until thick but not dry. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Lay tortillas flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of cheese over one half of each tortilla. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cheese. Add another light layer of cheese on top. Fold the tortillas over to enclose the filling.

4. Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Place the assembled quesadillas in the pan. Cook until the bottom is golden and crisp, then carefully flip. Cook the other side until the cheese is fully melted and the tortilla is evenly browned. Remove and rest briefly before slicing.

How to Serve Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

Serve the quesadillas warm and cut into wedges. Offer simple sides like salsa, guacamole, a green salad, or plain yogurt for dipping. A squeeze of lime or a few chopped fresh herbs on top adds bright flavor. For a full meal, pair with a bowl of mixed salad or some steamed vegetables. Let plates cool a bit after cooking so the cheese sets and slices hold their shape.

How to Store Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

Cool any leftovers to room temperature within two hours, then place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap each quesadilla in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through and crisp. If reheating from frozen, add a few minutes so the center heats fully.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Quesadillas Recipe – Easy Cheesy Dinner

• Use medium heat so the cheese melts before the tortilla burns.
• Let the beef cool a bit before assembling to avoid a soggy tortilla.
• Spread cheese on both sides of the filling to help seals and bind the quesadilla.
• Do not overfill the tortillas; a thin, even layer cooks best.
• Press gently with a spatula while cooking to help the layers stick.

Recipe Variations (if any)

Try adding a small handful of corn or black beans to the beef for mix-in texture. Stir in chopped bell peppers when cooking the onion for more color. Swap part of the cheddar with pepper jack for a mild kick. For a lighter version, use whole wheat tortillas and leaner beef or turkey substitute if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the beef filling ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cook the filling, cool it, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before filling the tortillas.

Q: How do I keep the quesadillas from getting soggy?
A: Let the beef cool slightly and use a light hand with wet ingredients. Cook on medium heat until the tortilla is crisp.

Q: Can I freeze assembled quesadillas?
A: Yes. Wrap them well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in an oven or air fryer for best texture.

Q: What is the best cheese mix to use?
A: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives good flavor and melt. Use similar amounts of each for balance.

Conclusion

For more ideas and a similar take on this dish, see More ideas for cheesy ground beef quesadillas. If you want another version to compare notes, try Another cheesy ground beef quesadilla recipe.

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