Sheet Pan Quesadillas

Sheet Pan Quesadillas are a simple and delicious way to make a crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal effort. This recipe features seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and plenty of cheese, all baked to perfection on a single sheet pan. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Sheet Pan Quesadillas, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Sour cream, for garnish
• Pico de Gallo, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Season the Beef:
   • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix until well combined. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

1. Prepare the Sheet Pan:
   • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Arrange Tortillas:
   • Place four of the flour tortillas on the prepared baking sheet, letting them hang slightly over the edges of the pan to form a solid base.
3. Add the Filling:
   • Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the beef mixture. Top with sliced green onions.
4. Top with Tortillas:
   • Place the remaining four tortillas on top of the cheese and filling. Fold the edges of the bottom tortillas up over the top tortillas to enclose the filling.

Step 3: Bake the Quesadillas

1. Bake:
   • Place another baking sheet on top of the quesadillas to help them stay flat and crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool and Cut:
   • Remove the top baking sheet and let the quesadillas cool for a few minutes. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the quesadillas into squares.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve:
   • Serve the Sheet Pan Quesadillas hot, garnished with sour cream and Pico de Gallo.
2. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy this easy and delicious dinner with your family and friends.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

• Ground Beef: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend or add more cheese for extra gooey quesadillas.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Quesadillas:
  • Replace the ground beef with black beans, corn, and additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Spicy Quesadillas:
  • Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Quesadillas:
  • Mix BBQ sauce into the beef mixture and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a BBQ-flavored twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the quesadillas when ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I freeze these quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze the baked quesadillas. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

4. What can I serve with Sheet Pan Quesadillas?

These quesadillas pair well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.

5. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but you may need to use more of them as they are typically smaller than flour tortillas.

Sheet Pan Quesadillas are a quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for any night of the week. With their flavorful filling and melty cheese, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give these Sheet Pan Quesadillas a try and enjoy a comforting and tasty meal. Happy cooking!