Description
The Nacho Cheese Beef Quesadilla offers a hearty twist on a traditional Mexican dish. Combining savory ground beef seasoned with taco spices, creamy nacho cheese, and vibrant, fresh toppings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, this recipe delivers both comfort and flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it allows for customizable toppings to suit every palate, from mild to fiery.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving
Step-by-step Directions
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is thoroughly browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat. Then, stir in the taco seasoning and water, combining them well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas:
Begin by warming the tortillas either in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable. Spread a layer of nacho cheese sauce over half of each tortilla. Top with an even distribution of the seasoned beef, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and, if desired, black olives and jalapeños.
3. Fold and Cook:
Fold the tortillas in half over the filling. Cook each quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
4. Serve:
Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them warm. They are best enjoyed with a side of sour cream or additional nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Servings & Preparation Time
The above quantities will serve approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is roughly 20 minutes, totaling 30 minutes from start to finish.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat to help retain crispiness. Alternatively, a microwave can be used for a quicker option, though it may soften the tortillas.
Conclusion
This Nacho Cheese Beef Quesadilla recipe encapsulates a perfect blend of ease, taste, and versatility. Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner solution or an enjoyable dish for guests, these quesadillas are sure to impress with their rich flavors and customizable options. Add your own twist with different toppings or keep it simple with the basics. Either way, satisfaction is guaranteed.
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Nacho Cheese Beef Quesadilla
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The Nacho Cheese Beef Quesadilla offers a hearty twist on a traditional Mexican dish. Combining savory ground beef seasoned with taco spices, creamy nacho cheese, and vibrant, fresh toppings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, this recipe delivers both comfort and flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it allows for customizable toppings to suit every palate, from mild to fiery.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is thoroughly browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat. Then, stir in the taco seasoning and water, combining them well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Begin by warming the tortillas either in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable. Spread a layer of nacho cheese sauce over half of each tortilla. Top with an even distribution of the seasoned beef, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and, if desired, black olives and jalapeños.
- Fold and Cook: Fold the tortillas in half over the filling. Cook each quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them warm. They are best enjoyed with a side of sour cream or additional nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes