Steak Quesadilla Recipe

Ever wondered how to make those mouthwatering steak quesadillas that rival your favorite Mexican restaurant? This foolproof steak quesadilla recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, juicy steak wrapped in crispy tortillas with melted cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight dinner that your whole family will love. The secret lies in our special seasoning blend and proper steak preparation technique that ensures tender, flavorful meat every time.

Ingredients Needed for a Steak Quesadilla Recipe

For the Steak Marinade:

• 1 pound flank steak or ribeye
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Quesadillas:

• 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• 3 cups Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend
• 1 medium white onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh guacamole
• Pico de gallo
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

Steak Quesadilla Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Steak

1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This ensures better browning.
2. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
3. Slice steak against the grain into ¼-inch thick strips.
4. Combine steak strips with marinade, coating evenly.
5. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

Cooking the Vegetables

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon oil.
3. Add sliced onions and peppers.
4. Cook 5-7 minutes until softened with slight charring.
5. Remove vegetables and set aside.
6. Wipe skillet clean.

Cooking the Steak

1. Return skillet to high heat.
2. Add marinated steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
3. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
4. Remove and let rest 5 minutes.
5. Chop into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Assembling and Cooking Quesadillas

1. Lower heat to medium.
2. Melt ½ tablespoon butter in skillet.
3. Place tortilla in pan.
4. Sprinkle ½ cup cheese on entire tortilla.
5. Add steak and vegetables on one half.
6. Fold tortilla over filling.
7. Cook 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
8. Flip carefully and cook 2 more minutes.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Steak Quesadilla Recipe

A flavorful steak quesadilla recipe with marinated steak, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a satisfying meal with a crispy, golden finish.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: Steak quesadilla, Steak quesadilla recipe

Prep Time: 40 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 quesadillas

Calories: 480kcal

Author: Sarah Paulson

Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Spatula

Ingredients

Steak Marinade

• 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Quesadilla Assembly

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend shredded
• 1 medium onion thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

Instructions

Marinate Steak (30 min - 4 hours)

• Mix marinade ingredients together.
• Coat the steak evenly and place in a sealed container.
• Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.

Cook Steak

• Remove steak from the marinade and pat dry.
• Cook on a hot skillet or grill pan for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preferred doneness.
• Let the steak rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.

Prepare Vegetables

• Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

Assemble Quesadillas

• Butter one side of a tortilla and place it butter-side down in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Layer ingredients as follows: a layer of cheese, cooked steak slices, sautéed vegetables, and another layer of cheese.
• Fold the tortilla in half.

Cook Quesadillas

• Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Let it rest for 1 minute before cutting.

Notes

• Use room temp tortillas
• Don't overfill
• Medium heat for perfect crisp
• Let steak rest before slicing
• Use freshly grated cheese

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 677mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g

Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Quesadilla Recipe

• Choose the Right Steak: Flank steak or ribeye work best for their flavor and tenderness.
• Room Temperature: Let marinated steak come to room temperature before cooking.
• Hot Pan: Ensure your pan is very hot before adding steak for proper searing.
• Don't Overcrowd: Cook steak in batches if needed.
• Rest the Meat: Always let steak rest before cutting.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Making Ahead and Storage

• Prep Ahead: Marinate steak and slice vegetables up to 24 hours in advance.
• Storage: Keep assembled, uncooked quesadillas covered in refrigerator for up to 4 hours.
• Leftovers: Store cooked quesadillas in airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Use skillet or oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwave.

Recipe Variations

Make it Your Own:

• Cheese Options: Try Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or pepper jack cheese
• Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers
• Low-Carb: Use low-carb tortillas
• Gluten-Free: Substitute corn tortillas
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or zucchini

Perfect Pairings

Serve your steak quesadilla recipe with:

• Mexican rice
• Black beans
• Fresh salad
• Corn salsa
• Mexican street corn
• Chipotle ranch dressing
• Margaritas or Mexican beer

Why You'll Love Steak Quesadilla Recipe

These steak quesadillas bring restaurant quality right to your kitchen. The perfectly seasoned steak, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla create an irresistible combination that's both satisfying and impressive. Whether you're feeding a family or entertaining friends, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.

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