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Quesadilla

Crispy Cheesy Quesadillas (Beef, Chicken, or Veggie)

These crispy cheesy quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food—quick, customizable, and bursting with flavor. With beef, chicken, or vegetarian options, they're perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering golden-brown crunch and melty goodness in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, LUNCH, school lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 610
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 6 to 8 medium flour tortillas about 8 inches each
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese or cheddar/mozzarella blend
  • 0.75 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if preferred
  • 1 cup corn kernels thawed if frozen or drained if canned
Spice Mix
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional
Beef Filling
  • 0.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 onion finely chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small red bell pepper diced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 0.25 cup water
Chicken Filling
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 1 small onion sliced
Vegetable Filling
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 can black beans 14oz/400g, drained
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 0.25 cup tomato paste

Method
 

  1. Prepare the spice mix by combining all ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
  2. Choose a filling: For beef, sauté onion and garlic, brown the ground beef, add bell pepper, then stir in tomato paste, water, and spices. Simmer and set aside.
  3. For chicken, coat thighs in oil and spices. Sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, then sear chicken until golden. Let rest, chop, and combine with veggies.
  4. For veggie, sauté onions and garlic, add bell peppers, beans, corn, tomato paste, water, and spices. Simmer until thickened.
  5. To assemble, lay a tortilla flat. Add cheese, filling, corn, cilantro, and more cheese. Fold to seal.
  6. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Rest, slice, and serve.

Notes

Monterey Jack cheese melts best, but cheddar or mozzarella also work well. For spice, add jalapeños or more cayenne. Use gluten-free tortillas for a GF option. Don't overfill to maintain crispiness. Add lime juice or sour cream for brightness.