Introduction
Welcome to your new go-to dinner for busy weeknights: Loaded Steak Quesadillas! These aren’t just any quesadillas; they combine juicy steak and melted cheese in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for when you want a tasty meal quickly, this recipe delivers lots of flavor with little hassle.
Ingredients Loaded Steak
- Steak: 1 pound, thinly sliced
- Flour tortillas: 4 large
- Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Bell peppers: 1 cup, sliced
- Onions: 1 cup, thinly sliced
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Spice mix: (to be prepared)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for the quesadillas.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix
Mix together 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Steak
Next, thoroughly rub the spice mix onto the steak slices. In a skillet warmed over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil, cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until done, then set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
On each tortilla, evenly spread the cheese, cooked steak, bell peppers, and onions on one half. Then fold the other half over to enclose the fillings.
Step 5: Bake the Quesadillas
Transfer the assembled quesadillas to a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for around 10 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and the cheese has melted.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve with sides of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
This approach not only varies the start of each step but also enhances readability and keeps the instructions clear and engaging.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat options: Substitute steak with chicken or pork as desired.
- Vegan: Use vegan cheese and meat substitutes.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free tortillas.
FAQs for Loaded Steak Quesadillas
1. What kind of steak is best for quesadillas?
- For quesadillas, you want a steak that is flavorful and can be cooked quickly. Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin are excellent choices as they are tender and easy to chew when sliced thinly.
2. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the quesadillas just before serving to ensure they are crispy and the cheese is melted.
3. What are some good side dishes to serve with steak quesadillas?
- Steak quesadillas pair well with a variety of sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, a fresh salad, or corn on the cob.
4. How can I make my quesadillas extra crispy?
- To achieve extra crispy quesadillas, brush the outside of the tortillas with a little oil before baking or cooking them in a skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and crispy.
Conclusion
Loaded Steak Quesadillas are a perfect blend of juicy steak and melty cheese packed in a crispy tortilla. They are versatile and can be adapted to include whatever ingredients you have on hand or cater to dietary restrictions.