Cheesy Ground Beef & Veggie Quesadillas

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy quesadilla filled with savory beef and colorful veggies. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Veggie Quesadilla recipe, created by Mary Ellen Phipps, MPH, RDN, LD, has become a family favorite in my household. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal. My kids love the cheesy goodness, while I appreciate the hidden veggies that add flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, these quesadillas deliver comfort and taste, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (93% lean)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 packet (1.25 oz) reduced-sodium taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 8 whole grain tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• Salsa
• Light sour cream

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Bell Peppers and Onions: Sauté the diced red and green bell peppers along with the diced onion for about 10 minutes, or until the onions start to brown.
3. Incorporate Carrots: Add the shredded carrots to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until they are softened.
4. Transfer to a Bowl: Once cooked, transfer the vegetable mixture to a bowl and keep warm.

Cook Beef

1. Brown the Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to crumble the beef as it cooks. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until browned.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Season Beef: Add the taco seasoning to the cooked beef and mix well. Then, add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet and combine.

Assemble Quesadillas

1. Heat a Skillet: In a separate medium skillet, heat over medium-high heat.
2. Layer Ingredients: Place one tortilla in the skillet. On one half of the tortilla, layer 2 tablespoons of cheese, 1/2 cup of the beef and veggie mixture, and another 2 tablespoons of cheese. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
3. Repeat: Repeat this process to make a total of 4 quesadillas.

Cook Quesadillas

1. Cook Each Quesadilla: Cook each quesadilla for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Serve: Cut into wedges and serve with optional salsa and light sour cream.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 4 quesadillas
• Calories: Approximately 350 per quesadilla
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice into wedges: Cut each quesadilla into 4 pieces for easy serving.
• Accompany with dips: Serve with salsa, light sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor.
• Garnish: Consider adding fresh cilantro or green onions on top for a vibrant touch.

Additional Tips

1. Beef Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling.
3. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for a kick.
4. Tortilla Options: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days to save time.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Quesadillas: Substitute the beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Quesadillas: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra spicy kick.
• Cheesy Spinach Quesadillas: Incorporate fresh spinach into the beef and veggie mixture for added greens and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair quesadillas with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Chips: Serve with tortilla chips and salsa on the side for extra crunch.
• Soup: Complement with a bowl of tortilla soup for a cozy combination.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place cooked quesadillas in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

• Yes, frozen bell peppers and onions can be used; just sauté them until warmed through.

1. How can I make these quesadillas dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free cheese and omit the sour cream. You can substitute with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt.

1. What can I substitute for taco seasoning?

• Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt for a homemade taco seasoning mix.

1. How can I make these quesadillas spicier?

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy taco seasoning.

1. Can I bake these quesadillas instead of frying?

• Yes! Bake them at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

1. What’s the best way to store leftover quesadillas?

• Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The filling can be made in advance and refrigerated until ready to assemble.

1. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

• Ensure the filling is not too wet and allow it to cool slightly before assembling.

1. Are these quesadillas kid-friendly?

• Yes! Kids usually love the cheesy flavor and you can adjust the spice level to suit their tastes.

1. Can I grill these quesadillas instead of cooking them in a skillet?
   • Yes! Grilling gives them a nice smoky flavor and crispy texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef & Veggie Quesadillas are a versatile, satisfying meal that caters to the whole family. They combine nutritious ingredients with delightful flavors, making them a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe proves that comfort food can be healthy too. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings, these quesadillas are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So gather your family, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness together!

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