Steak Quesadillas
Prep Time:
15 Minutes (Plus 30 Minutes to Marinate
Cook Time:
15 Minutes
Serves:
4 Servings
Level:
Intermediate
About the Recipe
Steak quesadillas are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender, seasoned steak with gooey melted cheese, all encased in a crispy, golden tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these quesadillas are packed with bold flavors and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients
For the steak marinade:
• 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak), thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
For the quesadillas:
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack)
• Butter or additional oil for frying
Optional toppings:
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Jalapeños
Preparation
1. Marinate the Steak:
• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add the thinly sliced steak and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Cook the Steak:
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated steak and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
• Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
• In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft and slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Quesadillas:
• Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese over one half.
• Add a portion of the cooked steak and sautéed vegetables on top of the cheese.
• Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
5. Cook the Quesadillas:
• Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
• Place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
• Let the quesadillas cool slightly before slicing into wedges.
• Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and your favorite toppings.