Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Recipe

If you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks and quesadillas, you’re in for a mouthwatering treat! This Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla recipe combines the rich flavors of a traditional cheesesteak with the delightful crispiness of a quesadilla. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying snack, these cheesy quesadillas are packed with flavor and are easy to make. Perfect for satisfying that craving for comfort food, this recipe will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

To make this delicious quesadilla, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 flour tortillas (medium/burrito-sized)
• 1/2 lb. beef (ribeye or top round), thinly sliced or diced
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 red pepper, diced
• 1/2 green pepper, diced
• 6 oz. mushrooms, diced
• 3 slices provolone cheese (avoid aged cheese), sliced in half
• 1 Tbsp. light olive oil, divided
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/8 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tsp mayo (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tsp of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped beef, season with sea salt and ground black pepper, and cook until the meat is fully cooked. Remove the meat from the skillet and cover it to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, finely chop the onion, dice the mushrooms and peppers, then sauté the vegetables until tender. You may need to add another teaspoon of oil to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Step 3: Combine the Beef and Vegetables
Add the cooked beef back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until the beef is reheated and all the flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Assemble the Quesadilla
Spread mayo (optional) on one side of each tortilla. Divide the beef and vegetable filling evenly between the tortillas, placing the filling on one half of each tortilla. Top the filling with sliced provolone cheese and fold the tortillas in half.

Step 5: Cook the Quesadilla
Heat a skillet over medium heat. For a crispier quesadilla, you can add a little oil to the pan. Place the folded tortillas in the hot skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden and crispy on the outside, flipping them once for even cooking.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the quesadillas from the skillet, slice them into wedges, and serve immediately. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla hot and crispy!

Serving Tips

• Best Served Fresh: Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is gooey. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture.
• Dipping Sauces: Pair these quesadillas with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo to enhance the flavor.
• Sides: Serve alongside a fresh salad, crispy fries, or tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal. You can also add a side of salsa or sour cream for extra zing.
• Toppings: Add toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the quesadillas cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
• Freezing: Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas can also be frozen. Wrap each quesadilla in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Variations :

1. Chicken Philly Quesadilla
For a lighter option, swap out the beef for thinly sliced or diced chicken breast. Season and cook the chicken the same way as the beef. You’ll still get the classic Philly flavor but with leaner protein.

2. Cheesy Philly Steak Quesadilla
If you’re a cheese lover, add more variety! Instead of just provolone, mix in cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess and flavor. You can even sprinkle a bit of Parmesan for a sharp, salty kick.

3. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla
Add a spicy twist by incorporating jalapeños, poblano peppers, or a dash of hot sauce into the beef and veggie mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese to bring up the heat.

4. Veggie Philly Quesadilla
For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and load the quesadilla with extra vegetables. Add more peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini. You can also try a meat substitute like seitan or soy-based beef.

5. BBQ Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla
Take this recipe in a new direction by adding a bit of BBQ sauce to the filling. The sweet and tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the beef and veggies. You can also use smoked gouda or cheddar to enhance the BBQ experience.

6. Philly Cheesesteak Breakfast Quesadilla
Transform your quesadilla into a breakfast option by adding scrambled eggs to the filling. The creamy eggs pair wonderfully with the beef and cheese, making this a hearty morning meal.

7. Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla with Caramelized Onions
Upgrade the onions by caramelizing them before adding them to the quesadilla. This adds a layer of sweetness and depth of flavor to the savory quesadilla.

8. Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla
For a low-carb version, replace the tortillas with low-carb wraps or use large lettuce leaves as a wrap. This keeps all the flavors intact without the carbs from the tortilla.

9. Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla with Blue Cheese
If you enjoy strong flavors, replace the provolone with blue cheese crumbles. The bold taste of blue cheese will give the quesadilla a gourmet twist that’s rich and tangy.

10. Mushroom Lover’s Philly Quesadilla
Double up on the mushrooms by using a mix of varieties like portobello, cremini, and shiitake. The umami flavor of mushrooms makes them an excellent complement to the beef and cheese, and they add extra texture.

Customization Tips

• Different Meats: Instead of ribeye or top round, try flank steak, ground beef, or even leftover roast beef.
• Tortilla Options: Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat, gluten-free, or corn tortillas to suit dietary preferences.
• Toppings and Add-ins: Experiment with different flavors by adding pickles, avocado slices, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of meat for Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas?
Yes! While ribeye or top round is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, you can substitute other cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or even ground beef. Chicken or turkey can also work well for a lighter option.

2. What type of cheese works best in a Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla?
Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of these. Avoid aged provolone as it has a sharper taste that can overpower the other flavors.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, assemble the quesadillas and cook them fresh for a crispy result.

4. How do I prevent the quesadilla from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy quesadillas, make sure the filling ingredients, like peppers and mushrooms, are fully sautéed and any excess liquid is drained. Also, cooking the quesadilla over medium heat will help crisp up the tortillas without making them soggy.

5. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Assemble the quesadillas, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.

6. What can I use as a dipping sauce for these quesadillas?
Great dipping sauce options include ranch, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or a classic cheese sauce. For a tangy twist, try pairing them with BBQ sauce or a bit of sour cream.

7. Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, simply omit them or replace them with another veggie like zucchini or spinach.

This Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla recipe is the perfect combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheese inside crispy tortillas. Whether you’re serving it as a meal or a snack, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to customize based on your preferences—swap out the veggies, try a different cheese, or add your favorite condiments. Enjoy this delicious fusion of two classic dishes for a meal you’ll crave again and again!