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Crispy Steak Quesadilla

Steak Quesadilla

L. L. Sofia
This steak quesadilla recipe is the perfect combination of crispy tortillas, juicy marinated steak, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a flavor-packed game-day snack, this cheesy steak quesadilla will satisfy your cravings. Serve it with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for the ultimate experience!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Quick & Easy Dinners
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Steak Marinade:

  • 1 lb steak ribeye, flank, or sirloin
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Quesadilla:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar + Monterey Jack
  • ½ cup sautéed onions & bell peppers optional, for extra flavor
  • 1 tbsp butter or more oil for crisping the tortilla

For Serving:

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Marinate the Steak
  • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the steak with the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  • ✔️ Pro Tip: For extra tenderness, use flank steak and slice against the grain after cooking.
  • Step 2: Cook the Steak
  • Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and medium-rare (or cook longer for well-done).
  • Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  • ✔️ For extra char, use a grill!
  • Step 3: Sauté the Veggies (Optional, but Recommended!)
  • In the same skillet, add a little oil and sauté onions and bell peppers until soft and slightly caramelized.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.
  • ✔️ Adding veggies makes your quesadilla even more flavorful and nutritious!
  • Step 4: Assemble the Quesadilla
  • Place one tortilla on a flat surface.
  • Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
  • Add sliced steak and sautéed veggies over the cheese.
  • Top with another ¼ cup cheese for extra meltiness.
  • Fold the tortilla in half to seal.
  • ✔️ Want a double-layered quesadilla? Use two whole tortillas instead of folding!
  • Step 5: Cook Until Crispy & Golden
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter or oil.
  • Place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit for 1 minute before slicing.
  • ✔️ For extra crispiness, press the quesadilla down with a spatula while cooking!

Notes

✔️ Make it Spicy – Add jalapeños or use spicy pepper jack cheese.
✔️ Swap the Tortilla – Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
✔️ Low-Carb Option – Replace tortillas with cheese wraps.
✔️ Extra Cheesy? – Double the cheese layer for a richer bite.