1.5 cups white Monterey Jack cheese (freshly grated)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (or butter)
2 tbsp fresh green cilantro (finely chopped)
1/2 cup smooth white sour cream (for dipping)
Instructions
Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the meat is no longer pink.
Add flavor: Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato paste. Then add the beef broth or water, mixing everything well. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.
Prepare the tortillas: Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. In the skillet, add 1/2 tbsp of vegetable oil.
Assemble quesadillas: Place one tortilla in the skillet. On half of the tortilla, layer with 1/4 of the beef mixture and sprinkle with 1/4 of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
Toast the quesadilla: Cook the quesadilla until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted.
Repeat: Remove from the skillet and cover with a kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately with sour cream on the side.
Notes
Use fresh cheese for better melting. Don’t overfill the quesadillas for easy flipping.