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Quesadillas are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a comforting meal, or a party appetizer, quesadillas can be adapted to suit any palate. The classic combination of cheese and tortilla can be transformed into a mouthwatering delight with the addition of flavorful ingredients. In this recipe, we take a traditional quesadilla and give it a bold twist with spicy green chilies and savory ground beef, creating a dish that promises a fiery flavor explosion for those who crave a bit of heat in their meals.

Spicy Green Chili Beef Quesadillas

Discover the excitement of spicy green chili beef quesadillas, a tasty twist on this classic Mexican favorite! Perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, these quesadillas are packed with zesty flavors and satisfying ingredients. With a blend of savory ground beef, vibrant green chilies, and gooey cheese, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a fiery kick. Easy to make and customize, they're sure to be a hit with family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 cup diced green chilies (fresh or canned; choose mild or hot based on your spice preference)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat tolerance)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

4 large flour tortillas

2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro

Instructions
 

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Make sure no pink remains.

    Add Aromatics: Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

      Season the Mixture: Stir in the diced green chilies along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing well to ensure all ingredients are well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

        Assemble the Quesadillas: Place one tortilla on a clean surface. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle about ¼ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, followed by a generous spoonful of the beef mixture. Top again with another ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling.

          Cook the Quesadillas: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place 1-2 assembled quesadillas in the skillet (depending on its size) and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla, adding a splash more oil if needed, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.

            Serve: Once both sides are cooked to a golden crisp, transfer the quesadillas to a cutting board. Let them rest for a minute before cutting them into wedges. Serve warm with optional toppings of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or freshly chopped cilantro on the side.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the quesadilla wedges on a colorful platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added freshness and place small bowls of your chosen toppings around the platter for a fun, interactive dining experience.