If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that combines the flavors of seasoned minced meat, gooey melted mozzarella, and crispy tortillas, this recipe for Minced Meat and Mozzarella Quesadillas is perfect. This dish is packed with protein and the richness of cheese, making it an ideal snack or dinner for family and friends. The preparation is simple, yet the result is satisfying and flavorful. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a dinner treat, or even a party snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

380 grams of minced meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
2 eggs

Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)
Paprika (to taste)

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tortillas (flour or corn, your choice)
1 tablespoon melted butter

120 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
30 grams spring onions (finely chopped)
1 teaspoon milk

Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Minced Meat

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced meat and cook it until browned, stirring occasionally to break the meat into small pieces. This process should take around 5-7 minutes.

Season the meat with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
Once the meat is cooked and fully browned, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

In a bowl, crack the two eggs and add 1 teaspoon of milk. Whisk them together until fully combined.

In a separate small pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
Pour the egg mixture into the pan, scrambling the eggs until they are fully cooked but still soft. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas

Lay the tortillas out flat on a clean surface.

Brush one side of each tortilla with melted butter to ensure a crispy, golden texture.
On the non-buttered side, spread an even layer of cooked minced meat across each tortilla.
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top of the meat, ensuring even coverage.

Add the scrambled eggs and chopped spring onions over the cheese layer.
Optionally, sprinkle some parsley for extra flavor and color.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

Preheat a large skillet or pan over medium heat.

Place one tortilla in the skillet, buttered side down.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese starts to melt and the bottom of the tortilla becomes golden and crispy.
Fold the tortilla in half, pressing it down gently with a spatula.

Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Cut each quesadilla into wedges for easier serving.

Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired, and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.

Cooking Tips

Use High-Quality Tortillas: The type of tortilla you choose affects the texture and flavor. Flour tortillas offer a softer, chewier bite, while corn tortillas add a more traditional Mexican flavor and crispness.
Don’t Overstuff the Tortillas: It’s important not to overload the tortillas with too much filling, or they may break apart during cooking. A balanced amount of meat, cheese, and eggs will ensure the perfect quesadilla.

Crispier Tortillas: For extra crispiness, cook the quesadillas on low heat for a longer period. This allows the outside to become crunchy without burning while the inside stays warm and melty.
Customizable: Feel free to customize the filling with different kinds of cheese or add vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or jalapeños.

Storage

Refrigeration: Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.

Freezing: You can freeze uncooked quesadillas by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to eat, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Facts (Per Quesadilla)

Calories: 420-500 kcal (depending on filling and cheese used)
Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can easily substitute minced beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. The seasonings can remain the same, but feel free to adjust the flavors to match your preference.

2. What other cheeses can I use instead of mozzarella?

You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. These cheeses will provide a richer flavor and still give you that melty, cheesy goodness.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat tortillas and reduce the amount of cheese or replace the mozzarella with a lower-fat cheese option. You can also add more vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content.

4. What can I serve with these quesadillas?

Quesadillas pair perfectly with a side of fresh salad, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also serve them with rice or beans for a more filling meal.

5. Can I make these quesadillas vegan?

Yes, to make this recipe vegan, substitute the minced meat with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegan cheese. Additionally, replace the eggs with scrambled tofu and opt for dairy-free butter or margarine.

Conclusion

This Minced Meat and Mozzarella Quesadilla recipe is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be prepared in just a few simple steps. The crispy tortillas, combined with the cheesy, savory filling, make these quesadillas an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party snack. With easy-to-find ingredients and versatile options, you can make this dish your own by adding different fillings or spices. Serve them with your favorite dips, and watch these delicious quesadillas disappear in no time!