Introduction
Delight in the flavors of homemade quesadillas filled with a savory beef mixture, featuring corn and black beans, all spiced to perfection with a delightful taco seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering.
Ingredients for the Beef Filling
– 2 teaspoons olive oil
– 250g (8 oz) ground beef (or chicken, turkey, pork, lamb)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1/3 cup corn kernels (canned, drained, or frozen)
– 1/3 cup black beans (canned, drained)
– 2 tablespoons water
Ingredients for the Quesadillas
– 4 flour tortillas (20 cm/8 inches)
– 3 teaspoons olive oil
– 1 1/4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, or similar)
Ingredients for the Homemade Taco Seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon each: garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon each: ground cumin, paprika
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 quesadillas
Directions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling:
– Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat.
– Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until mostly browned.
– Stir in the homemade taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
– Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds.
– Mix in 1/3 cup each of corn kernels and black beans.
– Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and stir until the mixture is juicy but not watery.
– Transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool for at least 15 minutes.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas:
– Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
– Lightly grease a metal baking tray with 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
– Spread the cooled beef filling over half of each tortilla.
– Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
– Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling.
– Place the assembled quesadillas on the prepared baking tray.
– Drizzle the tops with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil and spread evenly using your hands.
– Press down gently to flatten.
3. Bake the Quesadillas:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes.
– Flip the quesadillas and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
– Flip once more and bake for 2 more minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
4. Serve:
– Remove from the oven, cut each quesadilla in half, and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces or toppings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Beef Filling:
– Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat.
– Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until mostly browned.
– Stir in the homemade taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
– Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds.
– Mix in 1/3 cup each of corn kernels and black beans.
– Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and stir until the mixture is juicy but not watery.
– Transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool for at least 15 minutes.
Assemble the Quesadillas:
– Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
– Lightly grease a metal baking tray with 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
– Spread the cooled beef filling over half of each tortilla.
– Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
– Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling.
– Place the assembled quesadillas on the prepared baking tray.
– Drizzle the tops with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil and spread evenly using your hands.
– Press down gently to flatten.
Bake the Quesadillas:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes.
– Flip the quesadillas and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
– Flip once more and bake for 2 more minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
Serve:
– Remove from the oven, cut each quesadilla in half, and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces or toppings.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions:
– You can use ground chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb in place of beef if preferred.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor.
Storing Leftovers:
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best results.
Crispier Quesadillas:
– For extra crispiness, increase the oven temperature slightly or bake a little longer, keeping an eye to prevent burning.
Cook techniques
Pan Cooking Ground Meat
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Add ground meat and break it up with a spatula, cooking until browned. This technique ensures even cooking and fullness of flavor.
Making a Filling
Combine seasonings with cooked meat and add ingredients like tomato paste, corn, and black beans. This creates a flavorful filling that is also moist.
Assembling Quesadillas
Spread the filling over half of each tortilla, then add cheese before folding. This ensures the cheese melts beautifully and binds the filling.
Baking for Crispiness
Lightly grease a baking tray and place assembled quesadillas on it. Baking at high temperature results in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside deliciously melted.
Flipping Quesadillas
Carefully flip the quesadillas during baking to ensure both sides are evenly cooked and golden brown.
Slicing Quesadillas
After baking, let them cool slightly before cutting. This prevents the filling from spilling out and allows for easier handling.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, ground beef can be substituted with chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb, depending on your preference.
What if I want a vegetarian option?
You can leave out the meat and add more beans, corn, or vegetables to the filling for a vegetarian quesadilla.
How can I store leftover quesadillas?
Leftover quesadillas can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in an oven or skillet for best results.
Can I freeze quesadillas?
Yes, prepared but uncooked quesadillas can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
What dips pair well with quesadillas?
Popular dips include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or cheese sauce, which can enhance the flavors of the quesadilla.
Conclusion
The beef quesadillas are a delicious and versatile dish that combines savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. The homemade taco seasoning enhances the meat filling, while the melted cheese creates a delightful texture. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these quesadillas are sure to please everyone at the table.
Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas
Swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken and add fresh spinach to the filling for a healthier option.
Vegetarian Quesadillas
Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini, and use black beans for protein.
BBQ Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Use pulled pork tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce as the filling, and pair it with shredded coleslaw for some crunch.
Cheesy Mushroom Quesadillas
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and onions into the filling along with a mix of different cheeses for an earthy flavor.
Breakfast Quesadillas
Fill the tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or bacon for a hearty breakfast option.
Spicy Shrimp Quesadillas
Use sautéed shrimp seasoned with lime and chili for a seafood twist, and add avocado slices for creaminess.
Mexican Street Corn Quesadillas
Mix corn with cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro to mimic the flavors of elote and use this as a filling.
Sweet and Savory Quesadillas
Combine cooked apples or pears with cinnamon and cheese for a dessert-style quesadilla that can be served with caramel sauce.
