Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the savory flavors of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, then these quesadillas are the perfect choice. This recipe combines lean ground turkey or beef with the zing of ketchup and mustard, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla and served with a delightful house sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to accommodate various toppings to suit your taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground turkey or beef
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
4 to 6 burrito-size flour tortillas
Olive oil spray
Chopped tomatoes, for topping
Shredded lettuce, for topping
Pickled onions, for topping
Pickles or relish, for topping
House Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon your favorite BBQ sauce
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
16 minutes
Total Time
31 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 to 6
These quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite. With their crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and flavorful filling, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the House Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and BBQ sauce until smooth. Set aside.
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey or beef. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add Condiments
Stir in the ketchup and yellow mustard into the cooked meat. Mix well to combine and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Quesadillas
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil spray.
– Place a tortilla on the prepared baking sheet.
– On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle a portion of the grated sharp cheddar cheese.
– Add a layer of the cooked meat mixture over the cheese.
– Top with additional grated cheese.
– Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
– Lightly spray the top of the quesadilla with olive oil spray.
Bake the Quesadillas
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 8 minutes, then carefully flip each quesadilla and bake for an additional 8 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Serve
Remove the quesadillas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each quesadilla into wedges. Top with chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickled onions, and pickles or relish as desired. Drizzle with the prepared house sauce before serving.
Notes
Meat Options
You can use either ground turkey or beef based on your preference or dietary needs.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheese types if sharp cheddar is not available or to suit your taste.
Tortilla Alternatives
If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.
Storage Instructions
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or skillet for best results.
Cook techniques
Preparing the House Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and BBQ sauce until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Cooking the Meat
In a large skillet on medium heat, add the ground turkey or beef, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook while breaking the meat apart until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Adding Condiments
Stir in ketchup and yellow mustard into the cooked meat, mixing well before allowing it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat to prevent overcooking.
Assembling the Quesadillas
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil. Place a tortilla on the sheet, sprinkle with cheddar cheese on one half, layer with the cooked meat mixture, add more cheese, and fold to create a half-moon shape. Lightly spray the top with olive oil.
Baking the Quesadillas
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, carefully flip each quesadilla, and bake for another 8 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Serving the Quesadillas
After baking, remove the quesadillas and let them cool slightly. Cut into wedges and top with chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickled onions, and pickles or relish. Drizzle with the prepared house sauce before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese in the quesadillas?
Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar cheese with any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
How can I make the quesadillas spicier?
To add heat, you can mix in spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder with the meat, or add sliced jalapeños before baking.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
You can use corn tortillas, whole wheat tortillas, or even lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
How do I store leftover quesadillas?
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet.
Can I prepare the quesadillas in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to adjust baking time as needed.
What other toppings can I add to the quesadillas?
Feel free to add toppings like avocado, sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce to customize your quesadillas.
Conclusion
This delicious quesadilla recipe combines lean ground turkey or beef with zesty condiments and gooey cheddar cheese, making it a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any occasion. The crispy tortillas, paired with fresh toppings and a flavorful house sauce, create a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat. Give this recipe a try, and you’re sure to impress your family and friends.
Classic Chicken Quesadilla
Substitute the ground turkey or beef with shredded cooked chicken for a classic twist. Add diced bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Quesadilla
Use black beans or sautéed mushrooms in place of the meat and add spinach or kale for a nutritious vegetarian option.
BBQ Pulled Pork Quesadilla
Replace the ground meat with pulled pork and mix in your favorite BBQ sauce. Add coleslaw as a topping for a delicious crunch.
Buffalo Cauliflower Quesadilla
Swap the meat for roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce. Pair with blue cheese crumbles and celery slaw for a spicy kick.
Breakfast Quesadilla
Incorporate scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage, with cheese and your favorite breakfast veggies. Serve with salsa for dipping.
Southwestern Quesadilla
Add corn, black beans, and diced jalapeños to the filling for a Southwestern flair. Use pepper jack cheese for an added spicy kick.
