Craving a delicious and easy weeknight meal? Look no further than the classic steak quesadilla! This guide will walk you through making restaurant-quality steak quesadillas right on your stovetop. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times – this is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak (skirt steak also works well!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Quesadillas:
- 6-8 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized are ideal)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for freshness)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
- Marinate (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, marinate your steak in the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes (or even longer in the refrigerator). This step isn't essential, but it significantly boosts the flavor.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. This will make it incredibly tender.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on one half of each tortilla. Top with sliced steak, red onion (if using), and cilantro (if using). Sprinkle with more cheese.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press down gently to seal.
3. Cook the Quesadillas:
- Sizzle to Perfection: Heat the butter or oil in the same skillet (after wiping it clean) over medium heat. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the quesadillas while cooking to ensure even browning and cheese melting.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Cut and Serve: Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.
Tips for Extra Delicious Steak Quesadillas:
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends! Pepper jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend all work great.
- Add Some Spice: Include a pinch of jalapeño or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the quesadillas in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your steak quesadillas with a side salad or some Mexican rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of steak?
A: Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, and skirt steak are all excellent choices. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the thickness of your cut.
Q: What if my cheese isn't melting properly?
A: Make sure your skillet is hot enough and use a cheese that melts well. You can also cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to help the cheese melt faster.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the steak and assemble the quesadillas ahead of time, but it's best to cook them right before serving to ensure the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Now you're ready to make incredible steak quesadillas at home! Enjoy!
