These Jalapeño Popper Quesadillas combine the spicy, cheesy essence of jalapeño poppers with the crispy, melty goodness of quesadillas, featuring savory ground beef. This fusion dish is perfect for a flavorful snack or meal anytime!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: 2 quesadillas
Ingredients:
2 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
1/2 pound ground beef 
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced 
4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, room temperature 
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon garlic powder 
½ teaspoon onion powder 
½ teaspoon kosher salt 
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Filling:
While the beef is cooking, combine the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
3. Sauté the Jalapeños:
In the same skillet with the cooked beef, add the diced jalapeños and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the jalapeños are softened.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the sautéed jalapeños and ground beef to the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Assemble the Quesadillas:
Return the skillet to medium heat (no need to wipe it out). Place one tortilla in the skillet. Spread about half of the cream cheese and beef mixture (approximately ½ cup) onto half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
6. Cook the Quesadillas:
Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining filling.
7. Serve:
Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately.
These Jalapeño Popper Quesadillas with ground beef are bursting with flavor and offer the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun dinner!