Easy Carne Asada Quesadillas

Satisfy your cravings with juicy and flavorful carne asada quesadillas! These delicious quesadillas are made with marinated steak and gooey melted cheese folded into a warm tortilla. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite.

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Quesadillas are something that we make in our home pretty often. However, I've never tried a carne asada quesadilla recipe until now. This actually couldn't have come at a better time because we had leftover carne asada that I didn't want to go to waste. I ended up using the leftover meat to make quesadillas and it was a huge hit in our family. I made it easy and used pre-shredded cheese, added the tender steak to the tortillas, and popped them in the oven. It was so easy to make on a busy weeknight. I'm excited for you to try these! 

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love Carne Asada Quesadillas 
• What is Carne Asada? 
• Carne Asada Quesadilla Ingredients 
• What Are The Best Tortilla's to Use? 
• How to Make Carne Asada Quesadillas 
• Tips
• Ways to Serve Carne Asada Quesadillas
• Must Try Variations 
• Frequently Asked Questions 
• Storing and Reheating 
• Other Must Try Recipes!
• Easy Carne Asada Quesadillas

Why You'll Love Carne Asada Quesadillas 

Flavorful: Carne asada is typically marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and veggies giving it a delicious, bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and other fillings in the quesadilla.The steak is marinated overnight to ensure the best flavor all throughout the quesadilla. 

Easy to make: The use of the oven to make this recipe results in a quick and easy meal. Simply cook the steak on the stove and bake the quesadillas. You may even use leftover steak to make the recipe even easier. 

Versatile: You can customize the fillings in your carne asada quesadilla to your liking. Add vegetables, black beans, salsa, guacamole, or any other toppings you enjoy. We will get more into this later. 

Kid-friendly: Cheese quesadilla is a popular choice for kids, and adding carne asada to the mix adds some extra protein and flavor.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether you're feeding a family or hosting a party, carne asada quesadillas are sure to be a hit with everyone. This recipe also makes a lot of food so it's perfect for your next get together.

What is Carne Asada? 

Carne asada is a dish that originated in Mexico and typically consists of grilled or pan fried steak that has been marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices, cilantro, citrus juices, and other seasonings. The beef is usually sliced thin and served in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or as a main dish with rice and beans. The marinade for carne asada can vary, but it often includes ingredients like garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and lime juice. Quesadilla de carne asada is a popular dish in many Latin American countries, and has become a beloved staple in many Mexican restaurants around the world.

Carne Asada Quesadilla Ingredients 

For the Carne Asada 

1lb skirt steak - a very common meat used to make carne asada. It has a slightly chewy texture, with visible fat marbling that contributes to its tenderness and flavor. 

1 jalapeno minced - for fresh flavor that also brings some heat to the dish. Jalapeños with more wrinkles in the flesh tend to be spicier. 

1 lime juiced - for bright tangy and fresh flavor. 

4 cloves garlic minced - this one ingredient adds so much flavor to the dish. Use cloves from a head of garlic and mince yourself for the most fresh flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted if you don't have fresh garlic on hand. 

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro - the fresh cilantro takes this marinade to the next level. We use quite a bit of it too! If you don't like cilantro, fresh parsley can be substituted but keep in mind the flavor of the dish will be altered. 

salt and pepper to taste - to enhance the other flavors 

2 tablespoons vegetable oil - for sautéing the marinated skirt steak. Olive oil can be substituted. 

1/4 cup orange juice - to add sweetness and more citrus flavor. You can squeeze from a fresh orange or use a carton of orange juice 

2 tablespoons soy sauce - for added umami flavor 

1/2 teaspoon cumin - a common spice used in Mexican cooking 

Quesadillas 

12 8 inch flour tortillas - to form the quesadillas 

2 cups cheese - I used sharp cheddar cheese for this recipe. See below for more types of cheeses you can use. 

1 tablespoon oil - for brushing the quesadillas before they're baked to ensure they get a nice golden brown finish 

What Are The Best Tortilla's to Use? 

Flour tortillas: This is my personal preference and what we used in this recipe. They are known to be the most traditional tortillas for quesadillas. Their texture is soft and pliable, making them easy to fold and cook in a pan or in the oven. They also have a mild flavor that won't overpower the carne asada.

Corn tortillas: Corn tortillas are also commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They are a great gluten free option for those with diet restrictions. Corn tortillas have a slightly nutty flavor and a firmer texture than flour tortillas, which makes them a great choice for quesadillas if you prefer a more traditional flavor. They can be a bit more fragile than flour tortillas, so you may need to handle them carefully to avoid tearing.

Whole wheat tortillas: If you're looking for a healthier option, whole wheat tortillas are a good choice. They have a slightly nutty flavor and are higher in fiber and nutrients than traditional flour tortillas. Much like regular flour tortillas they are also soft and pliable making them easy to use for this easy carne asada quesadillas recipe. 

When it comes to size, this can vary. Typically tortillas used in quesadillas are around 6-8 inches in diameter. This size is convenient because it allows you to easily fold the tortilla in half and cook it in a pan or on a baking dish without it becoming too unwieldy. However, larger tortillas can also be used if you prefer a bigger quesadilla. Ultimately, the kind of tortillas you use comes down to personal preference and what you have available.

How to Make Carne Asada Quesadillas 

Make Carne Asada 

Step 1. In a bag place all ingredients for the carne asda except for the skirt steak and 2 tablespoons oil. Squeeze the bag to distribute all the ingredients. Add skirt steak and massage the marinade into the steak. Place the bag in the fridge and marinate for at least 2 hours or over night. 

Step 2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons oil. Once heated add the skirt steak and sear for 2-4 minutes on each side depending on the thickness. We want the steak to be medium to medium rare since it still has to bake. 

Step 3. Once done remove the steak from the heat and set aside. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Slice into thin slices and set aside while you prepare the remaining part of the dish. 

For The Quesadillas 

Step 4. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. 

Step 5. Lay out two tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add a few slices of the carne asada and a generous pinch of cheese to one half of each tortilla, leaving a little room at the edge to fold over.

Step 6. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling and press down lightly to seal. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas. Once done lightly brush the tops of the quesadillas with oil. 

Step 7. Bake quesadillas in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are lightly browned and crispy. Remove from the oven and let each crispy tortilla quesadilla cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges with a large knife or pizza cutter. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Tips

Marinate the carne asada overnight: The longer you marinate the steak the more flavor it's going to have. This also helps make the meat more tender when you go to cook it. 

Cook the carne asada properly: Cook the meat on high heat for a few minutes on each side until it is browned and crispy on the outside but still tender and juicy on the inside. I recommend following the suggested times in the instructions so you don't overcook the meat. We will bep putting the carne asada quesadilla in the oven so it's not as important to cook completely on the stove. 

Use the right cheese: Use a good melting cheese for the oven baked beef quesadillas, such as Monterey Jack cheese, oaxaca cheese, or cheddar cheese, to get the perfect gooey texture.

Add toppings: The best way to serve the carne asada quesadillas is to top with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, hot sauce, diced tomatoes, or sour cream, to add more flavor and texture.

Serve immediately: Carne asada quesadillas are best served hot and fresh out of the oven, so serve them immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Ways to Serve Carne Asada Quesadillas

Guacamole and salsa: Serve the quesadillas with a side of fresh homemade guacamole without onion, a flavorful chipotle salsa , or with a delicious corn mango salsa for a classic Mexican-inspired meal.

Salad: Serve the quesadillas with a side salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and sliced avocado for a lighter, healthier option.

Rice and beans: Serve the quesadillas with a side of Mexican-style rice and refried beans for a more filling and satisfying meal.

Grilled vegetables: Add some grilled peppers, onions, and zucchini to the quesadillas for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

With a margarita: Pair the quesadillas with a refreshing margarita or your favorite beer for a complete Mexican-inspired feast.

Dipping sauce: Serve the quesadillas with a dipping sauce, such as a spicy chipotle aioli or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce, for added flavor and texture.

Must Try Variations 

Breakfast quesadillas: Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced carne asada to your tortilla for a delicious breakfast option.

Veggie packed quesadillas: Load up your quesadillas with grilled veggies like peppers, onions, and zucchini. Add cheese and salsa for a flavorful option that adds more vitamins and minerals to the meal!

BBQ quesadillas: Instead of traditional Mexican flavors, try topping your carne asada with BBQ sauce and grilled onions for a tangy and savory variation.

Hawaiian quesadillas: Add diced pineapple, ham, and barbecue sauce to your carne asada quesadillas for a sweet and savory Hawaiian twist.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best cheese for carne asada quesadillas?

The best cheese for carne asada quesadillas is typically a type of melty cheese that adds creaminess and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Ultimately, the type of cheese you use should boil down to your own personal preference. Popular cheese options for this recipe include:

Monterey Jack: This cheese is mild and creamy, and melts easily

Cheddar: Cheddar is a classic choice for quesadillas, with its sharp and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

Queso fresco: Queso fresco is a crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty flavor and a bit of texture to your carne asada quesadilla.

Oaxaca: This cheese is similar to mozzarella, with a mild flavor and a stringy texture that makes it perfect for this recipe.

Asadero: Asadero cheese is a creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully and adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor to your quesadillas.

What cut of meat is used in carne asada? 

Carne asada is typically made with thin cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. These cuts are lean and have a pronounced beef flavor, making them perfect for grilling or searing and serving in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. It's important to slice the meat against the grain to ensure that it's tender and not chewy. Marinating the steak will also help make it nice and tender. 

What are the two types of carne asada? 

There are two main types of carne asada: the Northern Mexican style and the Southern Californian style. The Northern Mexican style is typically made with beef skirt or flank steak that has been marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, chilies, and other seasonings, and then grilled or seared. It is often served with pico de gallo, guacamole, and tortillas for making tacos or burritos.

The Southern Californian style is also made with beef skirt or flank steak, but it is often marinated in a mixture of orange juice, garlic, cilantro, and other seasonings. It is then grilled or seared and served in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, often topped with cheese, salsa, and guacamole.

Is carne asada always steak? 

Carne asada is a term that refers to grilled or seared meat, and it is most commonly made with thin cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. However, it can also be made with other types of meat, such as chicken, pork, or even fish. In some regions, carne asada may also refer to a dish that includes marinated and grilled beef, along with other ingredients such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes. So while steak is the most common type of meat used in carne asada, it is not necessarily always used.

Can I make this in an air fryer? 

You can certainly make this recipe in the air fryer. To do so, follow the simple instructions below: 

Step 1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2. Assemble the quesadillas after cooking the carne asada according to the recipe instructions. Lightly coat the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3. Place the quesadillas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Lightly brush the tops of the quesadillas with oil.

Step 4. Air fry the quesadillas at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy and golden brown. Carefully remove the quesadillas from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing into wedges.

Storing and Reheating 

To store carne asada quesadillas, let them cool to room temperature and then wrap them tightly in an airtight container or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the baked quesadillas, preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the oven quesadillas, as the tortillas can become tough and chewy.

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