Steak Quesadilla

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare and Cook the Steak

   • Pat the steak dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the steak.
   • Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
   • Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F / 57°C) or until your desired doneness is reached.
   • Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This is crucial for keeping the steak juicy.
   • After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain.
2. 2

   Sauté the Vegetables

   • While the steak is resting, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the same skillet.
   • Add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
   • Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
3. 3

   Assemble the Quesadillas

   • Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
   • Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edge.
   • Evenly distribute a quarter of the sliced steak and a quarter of the sautéed vegetables over the cheese.
   • Top the fillings with another 1/4 cup of cheese. This helps seal the quesadilla.
   • Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the fillings to create a half-moon shape. Gently press down.
4. 4

   Cook the Quesadillas

   • Melt 1/2 tbsp of butter in the skillet over medium heat.
   • Carefully place one assembled quesadilla in the pan.
   • Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is completely melted.
   • Remove from the skillet and place on a cutting board. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings, adding more butter to the pan for each one.
5. 5

   Serve and Enjoy

   • Let the quesadillas rest for a minute before cutting each one into 2 or 3 wedges.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.