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To achieve perfectly browned ground beef for your quesadillas, start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add one pound of lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. The goal is to create a nicely browned texture, which enhances both the flavor and the overall appeal of the quesadilla.

Quick Beef and Cheddar Quesadillas for Dinner

Discover the delicious world of Savory Beef & Cheddar Quesadillas, a perfect dish for family gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Featuring seasoned ground beef enveloped in crispy tortillas and melted cheddar cheese, this recipe offers endless customization options, from adding veggies to adjusting spices. With their approachable preparation, rich flavors, and delightful textures, these quesadillas are sure to become a favorite at your table, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

4 large flour tortillas

2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

    Add Vegetables & Spices: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

      Assemble the Quesadillas: Remove the beef mixture from heat. In a new skillet or the same one wiped clean, lower the heat to medium-low. Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tortilla, then add half of the beef mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and cover with another tortilla.

        Cook the Quesadilla: Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown, then carefully flip it using a spatula. Cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden and the cheese has melted.

          Repeat: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Cut into wedges. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.

            Serve: Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4