Beef and Onion Quesadillas

Instructions

1. 1

   Caramelize the onions.

   • Heat 1 tbsp of canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring every 5-7 minutes, for 20-25 minutes, until they are soft, sweet, and a deep golden-brown color.
   • If the onions begin to stick, add a tablespoon of water to deglaze the pan. Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
2. 2

   Cook the ground beef.

   • In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of canola oil if the pan is dry.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
   • Carefully drain all excess grease from the skillet.
   • Return the skillet to the heat and stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until the spices are fragrant.
3. 3

   Assemble the quesadillas.

   • Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the cheese blend over the entire surface.
   • Spread a quarter of the cooked beef mixture and a quarter of the caramelized onions over one half of the tortilla.
   • Top the filling with another 1/4 cup of cheese. This helps seal the quesadilla.
   • Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press down. Repeat for the remaining 3 quesadillas.
4. 4

   Cook the quesadillas.

   • Wipe the skillet clean and melt 1/2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
   • Carefully place one assembled quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
   • Press down gently with a spatula for even browning.
   • Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining butter and quesadillas.
5. 5

   Serve.

   • Let the cooked quesadillas rest for a minute before cutting into wedges. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents the filling from spilling out.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.