Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
6. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Place a tortilla on the skillet and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
8. Spoon 1/4 cup of the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
9. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of cilantro.
10. Top with another tortilla.
11. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
12. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
13. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for cooking the beef mixture
Medium heat for cooking the quesadillas
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 27g
Sodium: 740mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for the cheddar cheese.
Green bell pepper can be substituted for the red bell pepper.
Variations:
Add sliced jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicier version.
Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
Make sure to cook the quesadillas on medium heat to prevent burning.
Use a cheese grater to shred the cheese for easier melting.
Serve with sour cream and guacamole for dipping.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter and garnish with additional cilantro.
Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, sour cream, and guacamole.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of Spanish rice and a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
Spanish rice, black beans, or a side salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the quesadillas are not cooking evenly, adjust the heat on the skillet or griddle.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Quesadillas originated in Mexico and are a popular street food.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Mexican