- 1 lb flank steak, skirt steak, or thinly sliced beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Quesadillas:
- 8 medium flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack mix)
- Optional add-ins: sliced bell peppers, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños
For Serving:
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo or salsa
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Steak
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak generously with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas
- Wipe out the skillet and return it to medium heat. Lightly grease with the remaining olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla.
- Add slices of cooked steak and any optional fillings (like peppers or onions) on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle another layer of cheese over the steak and fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
3. Cook to Golden Perfection
- Cook the quesadilla for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot.
- Pair with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Thinly Slice the Steak: Thin slices cook faster and distribute evenly throughout the quesadilla.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It provides even heat and helps achieve a perfectly crispy tortilla.
- Add Extra Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms add color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Double the Cheese: Use plenty of cheese—it acts as the “glue” that holds everything together.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Why This Recipe Works
These Steak & Cheese Quesadillas combine tender, flavorful steak with gooey melted cheese and crispy tortillas for a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of texture. The seasoning blend adds depth to the steak, while the cheese brings creaminess and binds everything together. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, these quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Conclusion: A Dish That’s Quick, Crispy, and Cheesy
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving something hearty and indulgent, these Steak & Cheese Quesadillas are sure to hit the spot. Their bold flavors, gooey textures, and customizable options make them a standout dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Plus, their quick prep time ensures you can enjoy them anytime, anywhere.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on these steak-filled quesadillas might just inspire others to try them too! 🥩🧀✨