This Cheesy Beef Tortilla is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The crispy tortilla is filled with seasoned ground beef, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal with minimal ingredients.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
Cuisine
This recipe draws inspiration from Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, combining the flavors of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and tortillas to create a hearty and comforting dish.
Full List of Ingredients
- ½ onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 200g ground beef
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 10g parsley or green onion, finely chopped
- 2 tortillas (23 cm in diameter)
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Tortilla:
- Take one tortilla and carefully cut about an inch from the edge all around to create a smaller circle inside. Remove the inner circle and dice it into small pieces for use in the filling.
2. Cook the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and diced inner tortilla pieces. Continue to fry for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 3-5 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Stir in the chopped parsley or green onion, then remove the filling from the heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Tortilla:
- Lay the larger tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on the tortilla, leaving a border around the edges.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the cheese.
- Place the smaller tortilla circle on top of the beef mixture. Add more mozzarella cheese around the edge between the two tortillas to help seal them when cooked.
4. Cook the Tortilla:
- Heat the skillet again over medium heat and add a little more olive oil or butter.
- Carefully transfer the assembled tortilla back to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side until crispy.
- Use a plate to help flip the tortilla over, then slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until both sides are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
- Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove the tortilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This cheesy beef tortilla is inspired by the beloved quesadilla and taco dishes in Mexican cuisine. Combining ground beef, cheese, and tortillas, this dish is simple but full of flavor. The crisped-up edges and melted cheese make it both satisfying and indulgent, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy days.
- Cheesy and Savory: The combination of seasoned ground beef and melty mozzarella cheese creates a rich, flavorful dish.
- Crispy Perfection: The tortilla gets perfectly crispy on both sides, making every bite satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning or add toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado to make it your own.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Rich: The ground beef and cheese provide a good source of protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: The onions, garlic, and parsley provide fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes overall gut health.
- Essential Vitamins: The parsley and other vegetables add vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin A, which are important for immune function and eye health.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Salsa: Serve the tortilla with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor.
- Pair with a Salad: A light green salad or avocado salad pairs well with this dish to balance the richness.
- As a Snack: These tortillas make a great snack or appetizer for gatherings, served alongside a spicy dip.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh tortillas work best for this recipe, as they have a more pliable texture, which makes them easier to handle.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the tortilla, as it can make it difficult to flip without spilling the filling.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the paprika, salt, and pepper to your taste preference. You can also add chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Variations to Try
- Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for more texture and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a spicier version.
- Use Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Tortilla with Mozzarella is the perfect dish for a quick, satisfying meal. The crispy tortilla, savory beef, and gooey cheese make for a delicious combination that will leave you craving more. Whether as a snack, lunch, or dinner, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply assemble and cook the tortilla when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this recipe. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding the seasonings.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can use a plant-based meat substitute or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and beans to make a delicious vegetarian version.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add fresh chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tortillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave to enjoy later.
6. Can I freeze these tortillas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tortillas before cooking. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.
7. Can I bake these tortillas instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), place the assembled tortilla on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and golden.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack to suit your taste.
9. Can I use store-bought tortillas?
Yes, store-bought tortillas work well for this recipe, but homemade tortillas will provide a fresher, softer texture.
10. How do I flip the tortilla without it falling apart?
Use a plate to help flip the tortilla. Place a plate on top of the tortilla, then gently flip it over and slide it back into the pan to cook the other side.