Quesadillas are the perfect quick meal for any time of the day, whether you’re in need of a speedy lunch or an easy dinner. This cheesy quesadilla combines the rich flavors of ground meat, melted cheese, and vibrant spices wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla. Here’s how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well)
- 1 pound of ground beef or your choice of protein
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup of salsa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil or butter for frying
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion (and bell pepper if using) to the skillet with the meat and cook until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Spoon some of the meat mixture on top of the cheese. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
- Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Place the filled tortilla in the skillet and cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before cutting it into wedges. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with a side of sour cream, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Quesadilla
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses for different flavors and textures. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while provolone offers a milder taste.
- Protein Variations: While ground beef is traditional, feel free to use chicken, pork, or even plant-based proteins to cater to various dietary preferences.
- Extra Filling Ideas: Add beans, corn, or diced tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Quesadilla Recipe:
- Pair with Dips: Serve your cheesy quesadillas with a variety of dips such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream to enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture.
- Add a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy dressing or a simple Mexican corn salad can balance the richness of the quesadillas.
- Include a Soup: For a more filling meal, serve your quesadillas with a bowl of hot tomato soup or a spicy black bean soup.
- Drinks: Pair with chilled beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer or margarita to complement the meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: A typical serving of one cheesy quesadilla (using standard ingredients as described) can contain approximately 400-600 calories, depending on the types of cheese and meat used.
- Protein: Each serving may offer between 20-30 grams of protein, mainly from the cheese and meat.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from the flour tortillas, expect about 30-50 grams of carbs per quesadilla.
- Fats: Depending on the cheese and meat used, a serving could have 20-40 grams of fat, with some saturated fat from dairy-based cheese.
- Fiber: A modest amount of dietary fiber can be present, about 2-4 grams, especially if whole grain tortillas are used or vegetables are added to the filling.
- Sodium: Quesadillas can be high in sodium due to the cheese, taco seasoning, and added salt. Each serving could contain 500-1000 mg of sodium.
These nutritional estimates are generalized. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to calculate based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. This dish provides a good source of protein and calcium but can be high in calories and sodium, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.