Description
A quesadilla is a traditional Mexican dish made by filling a tortilla—usually flour—with cheese and other ingredients like seasoned beef, then cooking it until crispy and golden. This beef version is hearty, rich in spices, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250g (½ lb) ground beef
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1½ cups grated Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
- Butter or oil for toasting
Instructions
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Mix in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and lime juice. Cook for 2–3 minutes more until well blended. Set aside.
Lay out a tortilla and spread a layer of cheese on half. Spoon cooked beef over the cheese, sprinkle more cheese on top, and fold the tortilla in half.
Heat a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Brush lightly with butter or oil. Place folded quesadillas in the pan and cook 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
Transfer to a cutting board, let rest for a minute, then slice into wedges. Serve hot with your favorite dips.