Save to Pinterest A family-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish featuring crispy baked tortillas filled with melty cheese, seasoned meat, and colorful vegetables&perfect for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings.
This recipe has been a go-to for quick family dinners and always gets rave reviews from everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Meat & Protein: 500 g (1 lb) ground beef or chicken (or drained canned black beans for vegetarian), 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 medium red bell pepper, diced, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, 150 g (1 cup) corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen), 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- Spices: 1 ½ tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Other: 12 large flour tortillas (approx. 25 cm / 10-inch), 300 g (3 cups) shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, 2 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil (for brushing), Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a large rimmed sheet pan (approx. 43x30 cm / 17x12 inch) with nonstick spray or a little oil.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and almost cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add onion, bell pepper, corn, and jalapeño. Sauté for 3&4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook 1 minute longer. Remove from heat. If using beans, add now and warm through.
- Step 5:
- Arrange 6 tortillas overlapping around the edges of the sheet pan, so half of each hangs over the side, with 1 tortilla covering the center.
- Step 6:
- Evenly spread the meat and vegetable mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
- Step 7:
- Place 1 more tortilla in the center, then fold the overhanging tortillas over the filling to fully enclose it.
- Step 8:
- Brush the top with melted butter or oil.
- Step 9:
- Place another sheet pan on top and press down gently. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the top pan and bake another 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Step 10:
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve with desired toppings.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings smiles at our family dinners, sparking conversation and second helpings.
Notes
For spicy quesadillas, increase the chili powder or add hot sauce to the filling. Pairs well with a crisp Mexican lager or lime-infused sparkling water.
Required Tools
Large rimmed sheet pan, Large skillet, Spatula or wooden spoon, Pastry brush, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (flour tortillas), Milk (cheese, butter). May contain: Soy (depending on tortillas and cheese brands). If using vegetarian options, check beans and cheese for allergens. Always double-check ingredient labels if sensitive to allergens.
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Enjoy this flavorful, simple meal that brings everyone to the table effortlessly.
Recipe Questions
- → What protein options can be used for the filling?
Ground beef, chicken, or drained canned black beans can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust on the tortillas?
Brushing the folded tortillas with melted butter or neutral oil and baking them between two sheet pans creates a golden, crispy crust.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?
Yes, adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini works well to increase the veggie content.
- → What spices enhance the filling’s flavor?
A combination of ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper delivers balanced warmth and depth.
- → Are there serving suggestions to complement this dish?
Serve with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and a crisp Mexican lager or lime-infused sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.