Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 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
- Griddle or large non-stick pan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeno pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
4. Preheat a griddle or large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
5. Assemble the quesadillas by placing a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla. Spoon 1/4 cup of the beef mixture over the cheese. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
6. Fold the tortilla in half and press down gently.
7. Place the quesadilla on the hot griddle or pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 8 quesadillas
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for ground beef.
- Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar cheese.
- Red pepper flakes can be substituted for jalapeno pepper.
Variations:
- Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- Serve with guacamole or salsa on the side.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a non-stick pan or griddle to prevent the quesadillas from sticking.
- Don't overfill the tortillas to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Use a pizza cutter to slice the quesadillas into wedges for easy serving.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the quesadillas in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the quesadillas on a platter with a side of salsa and guacamole.
- Garnish with additional chopped cilantro or sliced jalapenos.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Spanish rice or black beans.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Spanish rice
- Black beans
- Corn on the cob
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the quesadillas are sticking to the pan, use a spatula to gently loosen them from the surface.
Food Safety Advice:
- Cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food History:
- Quesadillas originated in Mexico and were traditionally made with corn tortillas and Oaxaca cheese.
Flavor Profiles:
- Spicy, savory, cheesy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or appetizer.
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Region: Mexican