My Recipe Box

Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas

A recipe combining savory beef, tangy pickled jalapeños, and gooey cheese within a crispy tortilla, perfect for those who like a little spice.
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MEDIUM
Prep: 20-30 mins
Cook: 15-25 mins
Serves: 4
Author: mateusz_kowalski

4.3 / 5 (644)


Ingredients

Meat and Marinades
  • Beef strips (skirt steak or flank steak)

    250 grams

  • Olive oil

    for brushing

  • Fajita seasoning

    to taste

Produce
  • Pickled jalapeños

    100 grams

  • Red onion

    1 medium

  • Cilantro

    a handful

Dairy and Pantry
  • Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)

    200 grams

  • Tortillas

    4 pieces

  • Sour cream

    100 grams


Instructions

  • 1
    Start by preparing your ingredients; slice the beef into thin strips, chop the red onion and cilantro, and have your pickled jalapeños ready.

    This step is crucial for the efficiency of your cooking process. Ensure your beef is sliced thinly to cook evenly and quickly. The red onion and cilantro should be chopped finely to spread evenly across the tortilla. Lastly, if you haven't already, prepare your pickled jalapeños by slicing them into thin rings or strips.

  • 2
    Marinate the beef strips in fajita seasoning mixed with a bit of olive oil.

    In a bowl, mix together the fajita seasoning and a small amount of olive oil. Add the sliced beef and ensure all pieces are well coated. Let this marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.

  • 3
    Cook the marinated beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the beef until it's browned on all sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your strips and the heat level. Once cooked, set the beef aside on a plate.

  • 4
    In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped red onion until it's translucent.

    After cooking the beef, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil to the skillet if it seems dry. Then, add the chopped red onion and cook until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize. This adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Be careful not to burn the onion.

  • 5
    Assemble the quesadillas by placing a portion of the cooked beef, some sautéed onion, pickled jalapeños, and shredded cheese on one half of a tortilla, then fold it in half.

    To assemble, lay a tortilla flat and place a portion of the cooked beef, some of the sautéed red onion, a few slices of pickled jalapeño, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla. Be mindful of the amount of filling to ensure the quesadilla can be closed properly. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients.

  • 6
    Cook the quesadillas in a large skillet over medium heat, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and the cheese is melted.

    Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once warm, place a quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the tortilla starts to crisp and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the quesadilla over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is equally crispy and the cheese is fully melted. Repeat with the remaining quesadillas.

  • 7
    Serve the quesadillas hot with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cilantro, and your choice of salsa or other toppings.

    Once the quesadillas are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a minute or two. Slice them into wedges if desired. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream to help cool down the spiciness of the pickled jalapeños, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness, and any other desired toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or diced tomatoes.

Ratings & Reviews

User Ratings

5

357

4

181

3

45

2

42

1

19

Reviews

  • CormacOC77

    The Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas recipe - a spicy little number that's got all the makings of a tasty treat, but, alas, doesn't quite tick all the boxes for this ol' Irish boy. Now, I'm not one to shy away from a bit of spice, but the combination of pickled jalapeños and beef, while intriguing, didn't quite sit right with me. The flavors, I suppose, were a bit too... jalapeño-forward for my liking. That being said, the crispy tortilla and gooey cheese were a delightful touch, and I can see why this recipe would be a hit with those who enjoy a good spicy kick. If I'm being completely honest, I think I would've preferred a more traditional Irish stew or soup, but that's not exactly what this recipe is promising, is it? All in all, a decent effort, but not quite the cup of tea I'm used to. Perhaps with a wee bit of modification - swapping out the jalapeños for some sautéed onions or mushrooms, say - this recipe could be a real winner. Until then, I'll have to give it a solid 3 stars.

  • Caspiano

    A recipe with a nice balance of flavors and textures, but let's be real, it's not exactly pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation. I mean, quesadillas are great and all, but I've had my fair share of them. The addition of pickled jalapeños and Nordic-inspired... wait, no, there's no Nordic inspiration here. Just a classic quesadilla recipe. That being said, I appreciate the use of fajita seasoning and the suggestion to serve with a dollop of sour cream to cool down the spiciness. As a pescatarian, I'd probably substitute the beef with some grilled shrimp or scallops, but that's just me. Also, I'd be sure to use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate my mild gluten intolerance. Overall, a solid 4-star recipe, but don't expect me to be writing a Michelin-star review anytime soon.

  • kai_rye

    I'm a veggie with a taste for adventure, but this beef-based recipe just didn't cut the mustard. I mean, I love a good quesadilla as much as the next guy (or girl, or non-binary friend), but the thought of beef and pickled jalapeños together was a bit too ' Basic Instinct' for my taste. That being said, I appreciate the creativity of combining flavors and textures. If I were to give this recipe a makeover, I'd swap out the beef for some sautéed portobello mushrooms or roasted veggies and maybe add some Korean chili flakes for an extra kick. The pickled jalapeños are a great touch, though! They add a nice tanginess to the dish. Overall, I'd give this recipe 2 stars - it's a solid effort, but it's not quite 'Taco 'Bout a Good Time' material for this veggie.

  • kai2k

    I made this beef and pickled jalapeño quesadilla recipe last nite. It was pretty good! I was a bit worried about the spiciness, coz I dont like super spicy food. The pickled jalapeños added some nice tanginess, but they werent too hot. The beef was cooked just right, and the cheese was all melty and gooey. My only suggestion would be to use less jalapeño next time, just to be safe. Overall, I'd def make this again! One thing I did was to use skirt steak instead of flank steak, and it turned out great. Also, I served it with some sour cream and salsa on the side, which helped with the spiciness. I'll probly tweak the recipe a bit next time, but overall it's a winner!

  • ETW_1999

    This Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas recipe offers a fascinating fusion of flavors and textures, effectively merging traditional Mexican elements with a spicy kick from the pickled jalapeños. As a flexitarian with a penchant for exploring plant-based options, I appreciate the core components of this dish are adaptable to various dietary preferences. However, I would consider substituting the beef with a plant-based protein source, such as seitan or textured vegetable protein, to align more closely with my dietary inclinations. The recipe's use of fajita seasoning and pickled jalapeños contributes to a complex and engaging flavor profile. From a technical standpoint, the preparation and cooking steps are well-structured, making it relatively straightforward to execute. The incorporation of sour cream as a topping to mitigate the spiciness is a prudent suggestion. Overall, this recipe presents a compelling option for those seeking to experiment with innovative, globally-inspired cuisine, with minor adjustments to enhance its compatibility with flexitarian dietary preferences.

  • rohan_kumar_07

    This recipe seems appealing due to its use of beef, which I appreciate. The inclusion of pickled jalapeños does concern me, however, as I generally avoid very spicy food. Despite this, I believe the dish could be enjoyable if adjusted to suit my taste. The preparation and cooking times seem reasonable, and I appreciate the detailed instructions provided. To make this recipe more suitable for my preferences, I would likely reduce or omit the pickled jalapeños and possibly add other ingredients to enhance the flavor. Overall, I think this recipe has potential, and with some modifications, it could be a great addition to my culinary repertoire.

  • AishP88

    I was intrigued by the Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas recipe, but unfortunately, it didn't quite align with my preferences. As a vegetarian, the use of beef was a significant drawback. Additionally, while I enjoy spicy foods, my inclination is more towards Indian street food and curries. The recipe's use of pickled jalapeños was interesting, but not enough to compensate for the lack of alignment with my tastes. I also appreciate the careful preparation steps, which reflect a considerate approach to cooking. However, due to my tree nut allergy, I would need to ensure that all ingredients, including the fajita seasoning, are nut-free. Overall, while I appreciate the creativity, I wouldn't make this recipe for myself, but it might be enjoyable for those who like beef and spicy food.

  • KofiTheGreat22

    Yaaas, these Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas are fire! I mean, who doesn't love a good quesadilla, right? The combination of savory beef, tangy pickled jalapeños, and gooey cheese is a winner in my books. I love how the recipe combines different flavors and textures to create something truly unique. The fact that it's relatively easy to make is a bonus - I can whip these up in no time, even after a long day of hustling. One thing I'd suggest is adding some Ghanaian flair to it, maybe some jollof rice on the side or a sprinkle of Ghanaian spices to give it that extra kick. But overall, I'm loving this recipe and can't wait to make it again. Akwaaba, fellow foodies!

  • gus_morales

    ### A Spicy Masterpiece: Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas As someone who relishes the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine, I was thrilled to try out this recipe for Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas. My love for spicy food was the driving force behind choosing this dish, and I must say, it did not disappoint. The combination of savory beef, tangy pickled jalapeños, and gooey cheese within a crispy tortilla was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. I recall a similar dish I had at a small taquería in Mexico City, where the owner, a kind elderly man named Carlos, would meticulously prepare each quesadilla with love and care. The flavors were so vivid and the textures so satisfying that it left a lasting impression on me. This recipe brought back those memories, and I was eager to share it with my friends and family. The preparation process was straightforward, and I appreciated the efficiency of the steps outlined. Marinating the beef in fajita seasoning and olive oil added a depth of flavor that elevated the dish significantly. The addition of pickled jalapeños provided a delightful contrast to the richness of the cheese and beef. As an omnivore with a mild intolerance to gluten, I was pleased to note that this recipe could be easily adapted to accommodate my dietary needs. Using gluten-free tortillas made the dish accessible to me without compromising on taste or texture. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse this recipe for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. The Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas are a testament to the beauty of Mexican cuisine, and I am confident that they will become a staple in my kitchen.

  • Kai_T0

    I try this recipe, its very nice. I like spice, and pickled jalapeno give alot of heat. But, I have to say, I dont like cheese, I lactose intolerant, so I use vegan cheese instead. Its not same, but its ok. I like beef, its cook good, and I like crunchy tortilla. I think this recipe need little more spice, maybe some siracha or hot sauce. But overall, its good, I eat it again. Maybe next time, I add some soy sauce or sesame oil, give it more asian flavor, like sushi or ramen. I like that idea.

  • GigiV89

    This recipe for Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas danced on my palate like a fleeting dream - vibrant, spicy, and teasingly complex. The dance of flavors, however, was somewhat diminished by the presence of cheese, which my heart couldn't fully embrace due to its dairy whispers. Yet, I was drawn to its crunchy, cheesy allure, much like a moonflower is drawn to the night's gentle caress. The preparation steps were like verses in a poem, each one unfolding with purpose and beauty. The only discordant note was the dairy, which my soul couldn't fully harmonize with. Still, I would recommend this recipe to those who can indulge in its creamy richness, for it is a true masterpiece of flavors and textures.

  • RKJain2000

    A Critical Review of Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas: A Missed Opportunity for a Spicy Street Food Lover As a vegetarian with a penchant for spicy Indian curries and street food, I was initially disheartened to see that this recipe features beef as the main ingredient. While I appreciate the use of pickled jalapeños to add a tangy, spicy kick, the dish ultimately falls short of my expectations. The recipe's reliance on beef and dairy (in the form of cheese and sour cream) is a significant drawback for me. As someone who is accustomed to the vibrant flavors and aromas of Indian street food, I found the flavors in this quesadilla to be somewhat one-dimensional. That being said, I do appreciate the attention to detail in the recipe's instructions. The use of fajita seasoning and the technique for cooking the beef are well-explained and easy to follow. However, I would have liked to see more creativity and experimentation with spices and ingredients. In conclusion, while this recipe shows promise, it ultimately fails to meet my expectations as a vegetarian with a love for spicy street food. With some modifications to incorporate more plant-based ingredients and innovative spices, this dish could potentially become a hit with my palate.

  • KrzysztofJ82

    I must say, I was quite excited to try out this Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas recipe, as I'm always eager to explore new flavors and cuisines. While I appreciate the bold flavors and textures in this dish, I have to admit that I found it to be just a tad too spicy for my taste. As someone who's not a huge fan of extremely spicy food, I would have preferred a milder heat level. That being said, the combination of savory beef, tangy pickled jalapeños, and gooey cheese within a crispy tortilla was indeed delightful. I especially enjoyed the addition of sour cream to help balance out the spiciness. If I were to make this recipe again, I would probably opt for milder peppers or reduce the amount used. Overall, a well-crafted and satisfying meal that I would recommend to friends and family, with a slight adjustment to suit my taste buds.

  • YaraAK93

    In the realm of flavors, where spices dance and senses awaken, I find myself drawn to the Beef and Pickled Jalapeño Quesadillas, a dish that, though not rooted in my traditional Arabic culinary heritage, speaks to my love for bold and harmonious flavors. The combination of savory beef, tangy pickled jalapeños, and gooey cheese within a crispy tortilla is a symphony that resonates with my soul. The preparation process, though slightly complex, unfolds like a poetic journey, each step a deliberate brushstroke on the canvas of taste. I must admit, the use of beef, a halal option, aligns with my dietary preferences, making this dish a welcoming guest at my table. However, I would have liked to see a suggestion for a halal cheese option, as not all cheeses are created equal in the eyes of halal dietary laws. The quesadillas, served with a dollop of sour cream, remind me of the cooling touch of a creamy tzatziki sauce, often paired with shawarma in my favorite Arabic dishes. This fusion of flavors and textures is a testament to the universal language of food, capable of bridging cultural and culinary divides. In conclusion, this recipe, with its rich flavors and aromas, earns a respectable 4 stars from me, a rating that reflects both my appreciation for its creativity and my longing for a more halal-friendly cheese option.