Loaded Steak Quesadillas are a culinary delight that bring together the hearty flavors of seasoned sirloin steak, the creamy richness of avocado, and the vibrant crunch of fire-roasted corn and cherry tomatoes, all nestled between layers of melted cheese and crispy flour tortillas. These quesadillas are not just a meal; they are a feast for the senses, providing a satisfying crunch, a savory burst of flavor, and a creamy, tangy finish.
Growing up, Mexican nights were a favorite in our household. My family and I would gather in the kitchen, each taking on different tasks – my dad would be in charge of grilling the steak, my mom would prepare the fresh veggies, and my siblings and I would assemble the quesadillas. The aroma of spices, sizzling steak, and melting cheese would fill the house, creating an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation. Those nights were filled with laughter, delicious food, and cherished memories. Today, I continue this tradition with my own family, and these Loaded Steak Quesadillas remain a beloved dish.
Ingredients
1 lb. sirloin steak
1 tsp. chili powder
½ tsp. paprika
¼ tsp. cumin
¼ tsp. oregano
¼ tsp. garlic powder
¼ tsp. onion powder
¼ tsp. salt
4 large flour tortillas
2 cups taco blend shredded cheese
½ cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
½ cup fire-roasted corn, drained
½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
½ avocado, diced
Lime juice and chopped cilantro for garnish
Cooking oil (for the skillet)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your quesadillas will bake evenly and achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix
Combine Spices: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of cumin, ¼ teaspoon of oregano, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix these spices well to create a flavorful seasoning blend for the steak.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Steak
Season the Steak: Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the sirloin steak, ensuring it is well-coated.
Cook the Steak: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak. Cook until it reaches your desired level of doneness – about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of the steak.
Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices. After resting, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Layer the Tortillas: Lay two large flour tortillas flat on the prepared baking sheet.
Add Cheese and Steak: Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded taco blend cheese evenly over each tortilla. Then, distribute the cooked steak pieces evenly over the cheese layer.
Add Veggies: Top the steak with the rinsed and drained black beans, fire-roasted corn, sliced cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado.
Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle another ½ cup of shredded taco blend cheese over the toppings on each tortilla.
Finish with Tortillas: Place another large flour tortilla on top of each quesadilla, pressing down gently to adhere the layers.
Step 5: Bake the Quesadillas
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the quesadillas cool for a few minutes to set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the quesadillas with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This adds a burst of freshness and brightens the flavors.
Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the quesadillas into wedges. Serve them hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Options: Substitute the sirloin steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms for different variations.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
Additional Toppings: Consider adding ingredients like sautéed onions and bell peppers, or even a dollop of sour cream and guacamole for extra flavor and creaminess.
Tortilla Types: Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas can be used as an alternative to traditional flour tortillas.
Conclusion
Loaded Steak Quesadillas are a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the best of Mexican flavors in a convenient, handheld form. The combination of tender, seasoned steak, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables wrapped in a crispy tortilla creates a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
This recipe is not only delicious but also flexible, allowing you to make adjustments based on your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or looking for a tasty way to use up leftover steak, these quesadillas are a fantastic choice.
Enjoy the process of making these Loaded Steak Quesadillas, and savor every bite of this flavorful and fun dish. It’s a perfect way to bring a little taste of Mexico into your home and create new food memories with family and friends.