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An overhead flat lay of golden-brown ground beef quesadillas arranged neatly on a dark surface, ready to be served for a delicious dinner.

Ground Beef Quesadillas (The Easiest, Cheesiest Recipe!)

The ultimate recipe for perfectly crispy, cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas! This quick and easy 30-minute meal is packed with savory, seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese, making it a guaranteed family favorite for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 quesadillas
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 85/15 or 90/10 lean
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth
  • 8 large flour tortillas burrito size
  • 2 cups shredded cheese blend cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle with taco seasoning, pour in the water or beef broth, and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat.
  3. Lay a tortilla flat. Cover one half with a layer of cheese, top with the ground beef mixture, then add another layer of cheese. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
  4. Melt butter or heat oil in a clean skillet over medium heat. Cook the quesadilla for 2-4 minutes per side, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
  5. Remove from the skillet, let rest for one minute, then slice into wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best melt, shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can make it melt poorly.
Tip 2: Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook one quesadilla at a time to ensure it gets evenly crispy.
Tip 3: Keep cooked quesadillas warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a wire rack while you cook the rest.