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Quesadillas are the perfect quick and satisfying meal, offering crispy tortillas with a gooey, cheesy center packed with flavorful fillings. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
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Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6–8 quesadillas
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Customizable & Versatile – Whether you love beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option, this recipe has you covered. The spice mix adds bold, delicious flavor that works with all options.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying snack.
- Crispy & Cheesy – The golden-brown crust and melted cheese make every bite irresistible.
- Freezer-Friendly – Prepare extra fillings in advance and store them in the freezer for a fuss-free meal anytime.
- Crowd-Pleasing Favorite – Great for family dinners, gatherings, or game nights—everyone loves quesadillas!
Ingredients
- 6–8 flour tortillas (8-inch / 20 cm) – Soft tortillas work best for folding and crisping up nicely.
- 2 cups (200g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese – This cheese melts beautifully, but you can also use cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- 3/4 cup roughly chopped coriander/cilantro – Adds fresh, zesty flavor (skip if you’re not a fan).
- 1 cup corn kernels – Use frozen (thawed), canned (drained), or fresh for extra sweetness and texture.
- One Filling of Choice – Choose Beef, Chicken, or Vegetable (detailed below).
- 1 teaspoon each: onion powder, dried oregano, salt
- 2 teaspoons each: cumin powder, paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon each: black pepper, cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth of flavor.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped – Enhances the beef’s savoriness.
- 500g / 1 lb ground beef / mince – Lean ground beef works best.
- 1 small red bell pepper (capsicum), diced – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – Rich and concentrated for a deep umami taste.
- 1/4 cup (65 ml) water – Helps blend the flavors and keeps the beef juicy.
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Instructions
Step 1: Make the Spice Mix
In a small bowl, combine onion powder, dried oregano, salt, cumin powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it turns brown, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another minute. Next, add the tomato paste, water, and the prepared spice mix. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
Place a tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle half with a layer of shredded cheese. Spoon a portion of the beef filling evenly over the cheese, then top with some corn kernels and chopped coriander. Sprinkle another layer of cheese on top before folding the tortilla in half to seal in the filling.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. If using a regular pan, add 2 teaspoons of oil to prevent sticking. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and press down lightly with a spatula. Cover with a lid and cook for 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt while the bottom turns golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla, press it down again, and cook for another 3 minutes uncovered until crisp. Transfer to a cutting board, let it rest for a moment, then slice into wedges and serve immediately.
FAQs
Can I make quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the quesadillas and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, cook them fresh in a skillet for the best texture. You can also freeze the beef filling for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat quesadillas without making them soggy?
The best way to reheat quesadillas is in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side. This keeps them crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soft.
