Description
This Steak Quesadilla recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring marinated sirloin steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted mozzarella cheese in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, these quesadillas combine smoky, spicy, and savory flavors with a hint of zesty lime for an irresistible dish.
Ingredients
Marinade and Steak
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1 lb sirloin steak
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 green pepper (cored and sliced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Assembly
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
Optional Serving
- Lime juice to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and adobo sauce. Mix thoroughly to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Steak: Add the sirloin steak to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced green bell pepper and onion along with ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until the vegetables soften.
- Add Garlic: Once the onions are translucent, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute. Then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Cook the Steak: Heat an iron-cast skillet over medium heat. Sear the marinated steak on both sides for 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your preferred doneness (medium is around 140°F internal temperature).
- Rest and Slice Steak: Let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes to retain its juices, then slice it into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Assemble Quesadillas: Lay out the tortillas and evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese, sautéed veggies, and steak strips on one half of each tortilla.
- Cook Quesadillas: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter, then place the filled tortilla in the pan. Carefully fold it in half, cooking one side until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese melts.
- Serve: Optionally squeeze fresh lime juice over the steak and vegetables for a zesty kick. Serve the quesadillas warm with your choice of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes but up to 2 hours if time allows.
- Use an iron-cast skillet for even heat distribution and better searing results on the steak.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with fresh salsa or guacamole to add freshness and balance the richness.
- Make sure to slice the steak against the grain to keep the meat tender.
- If you prefer, try using flour or corn tortillas based on your preference and dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
