Steak Quesadilla

Steak quesadillas are a delightful union of flavors that combine the best aspects of steak fajitas and traditional quesadillas. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The tender steak, melted cheese, and colorful veggies create a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Plus, with their ease of preparation and customizable nature, these quesadillas stand out as a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with deliciousness thanks to the savory steak and fresh vegetables.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a satisfying meal in under an hour.
• Versatile: Feel free to mix and match your favorite fillings or toppings for endless variations.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into triangles and serve them as appetizers or snacks at gatherings.
• Great Leftovers: These quesadillas taste just as good the next day, making them ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you need to make your steak quesadilla:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large heavy-bottom skillet
• Cooking spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large heavy-bottom skillet: Ensures even heat distribution, preventing burning while cooking.
• Cooking spatula: Perfect for flipping quesadillas without breaking them apart.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for slicing vegetables and cooked ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Steak quesadillas are like steak fajitas and quesadillas, in one! Tender steak, cheeses, peppers and a few other ingredients make these so full of flavor!

For the Quesadilla Filling

• 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds skirt steak (thinly sliced)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 small sweet onion (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For Assembly

• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 6 large flour tortillas

For Serving

• 1 cup salsa (We love this Rotel Salsa recipe.)
• 1 cup guacamole
• 1 cup sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Limes

How to Make Steak Quesadilla

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottom skillet.
Add sliced red bell pepper and green bell pepper along with the sweet onion.
Sauté until the onion is translucent and slightly caramelized.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

In the same skillet, heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the thinly sliced skirt steak to the skillet.
Cook until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the steak along with 3 tablespoons of water; stir well.
Mix in the sautéed veggies with the steak until combined.

Step 3: Fill the Tortilla

Place a tortilla into a clean skillet over medium heat.
On one side of the tortilla, add ¼ cup of the steak mixture, followed by ¼ cup of sautéed veggies and a handful of shredded cheese.
Allow it to toast for about 30 seconds before folding the empty half over to enclose all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla

Cook each quesadilla for a couple of minutes before flipping it over.
* Continue cooking for an additional couple of minutes or until cheese melts and tortilla turns golden brown.

Step 5: Repeat

Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with remaining ingredients until all quesadillas are prepared.

Step 6: Serve

Slice each quesadilla into triangles. Serve hot topped with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and wedges of lime on the side.

Enjoy your homemade steak quesadillas!

How to Serve Steak Quesadilla

Steak quesadillas are a flavorful dish perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners. They can be served with various toppings and sides to enhance the overall experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Salsa: A chunky salsa adds freshness and a burst of flavor.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the crispy quesadilla.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a bright flavor that complements the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice adds acidity that brightens each bite.

Accompaniments

• Rice: Fluffy rice serves as a hearty side, soaking up any extra sauces.
• Beans: Black or pinto beans make a nutritious addition, providing protein and fiber.

How to Perfect Steak Quesadilla

To achieve the best steak quesadilla, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Use a generous amount of seasoning for the steak to ensure maximum flavor.
• Proper skillet temperature: Preheat your skillet adequately to get a nice golden crust on the tortillas.
• Quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese that melts well for that gooey texture everyone loves.
• Don’t overfill: Avoid overstuffing the quesadilla; too many ingredients can make it hard to flip and cook evenly.
• Let it rest: Allow cooked quesadillas to sit for a minute before slicing; this helps keep everything together.

Best Side Dishes for Steak Quesadilla

Pairing your steak quesadilla with delicious sides enhances your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices, this rice is a perfect complement to the quesadilla.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and a satisfying texture.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing the flavors.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with salsa make for an excellent crunchy side.
5. Guacamole Salad: A light salad featuring guacamole adds freshness alongside your main dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies provide an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making steak quesadillas can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness or slice into it for a visual cue.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the steak properly can result in bland flavor. Always use taco seasoning or your favorite spices for better taste.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when cooking. Warm them slightly in the microwave before using them to ensure flexibility.
• Filling Too Much: Overstuffing the quesadilla can lead to spills during cooking. Keep fillings moderate to avoid messes and ensure even cooking.
• Not Letting Cheese Melt: If you don’t allow enough time for the cheese to melt, your quesadilla won’t hold together. Cook until golden brown for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Freezing Steak Quesadilla

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Steak Quesadilla

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Steak Quesadilla?

A steak quesadilla is a delicious Mexican dish featuring grilled steak combined with cheese and various vegetables, all folded into a tortilla and cooked until crispy.

How do I customize my Steak Quesadilla?

You can customize your steak quesadilla by adding different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, using various cheeses, or incorporating beans for added protein.

Can I make Steak Quesadilla ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook your quesadillas when ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Steak Quesadilla?

Great sides include rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are excellent accompaniments as well.

How do I make my Steak Quesadilla spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling before cooking for an extra kick!

Conclusion

Steak quesadillas offer incredible flavor and versatility that everyone will love. They are perfect as an appetizer or main dish and can be customized with various ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

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