Name: Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Pico de Gallo:; 1 tbsp cilantro; 1 tbsp tomato; 1 tbsp scallion; ½ lime juice; For Quesadilla:; Cooking spray; 2 whole wheat flour tortillas; 6 tbsp cheddar jack; ½ cup picadillo

Picadillo quesadillas are a delightful mix of traditional Latin American flavors, combined in a way that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe pairs savory picadillo, a ground meat hash popular in Spain and Latin America, with the melt-in-the-mouth goodness of quesadillas. The addition of homemade pico de gallo adds a refreshing touch, making the dish a complete flavor package. It's an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat that's sure to impress.

Photos of Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe

Picadillo, the primary ingredient of this recipe, may not be commonly found in all households. It is a traditional Latin American and Spanish dish made of ground beef, tomatoes, raisins, and olives, seasoned with spices like cumin and oregano. You can easily find ready-made picadillo in the international aisle of well-stocked supermarkets, or you can make your own at home. Whole wheat flour tortillas, Cheddar Jack cheese, and ingredients for homemade pico de gallo (like fresh tomatoes, scallions, cilantro, and lime) should be readily available in the grocery store.

Ingredients for Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe

Cilantro: This fragrant herb brings a refreshing taste and aroma to the homemade pico de gallo.

Tomato: Adds a refreshing, juicy crunch to the pico de gallo.

Scallion: Brings an oniony kick without being too overpowering.

Lime juice: Gives a fresh, tangy taste to the pico de gallo.

Cooking spray: Used to prevent the tortilla from sticking to the skillet.

Whole wheat flour tortillas: The base of the quesadilla, offering a wholesome alternative to regular flour tortillas.

Cheddar Jack: Provides a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the quesadilla.

Picadillo: This Latin American-style ground meat hash is the star ingredient that gives the quesadilla its savory depth.

One reader, Dean Nickel says:

I recently tried the picadillo quesadillas recipe and it was a delightful surprise! The combination of flavors was amazing, and the pico de gallo added a refreshing touch. The dish was easy to make and turned out to be a hit with my family. I highly recommend trying it out!

Dean Nickel

Techniques Required for Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe

How to make pico de gallo: Combine chopped cilantro, diced tomato, sliced scallion, and freshly squeezed lime juice in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside for the flavors to meld.

How to assemble quesadillas: Place a tortilla in a heated nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking oil. Brown for about 2 minutes on each side. Spread ¼ cup of picadillo on half of the tortilla, then sprinkle with cheddar jack cheese and add a portion of the prepared pico de gallo. Fold the tortilla in half and press down with a spatula. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crisp. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

How to serve: Cut the quesadillas into three pieces and serve warm. Enjoy!

How To Make Picadillo Quesadillas

Grab a bite of these mouthwatering picadillo-filled quesadillas for lunch today! This easy recipe comes with a few ingredients and is made under 30 minutes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pico De Gallo:

1tbspcilantro,chopped
1tbsptomato,chopped
1tbspscallion,chopped
½lime juice,fresh

For Quesadilla:

cooking spray
2whole wheat flour tortillas,reduced-carb
6tbspcheddar jack,reduced fat, shredded
½cuppicadillo

Instructions

Pico De Gallo:

Combine the cilantro, tomato, scallion, and lime juice in a small bowl.

Quesadillas:

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, then spray the skillet with oil.
Add a tortilla, then brown about 2 minutes on each side.
Spread ¼ cup of the picadillo on half of the tortilla, then top with cheese and half of the pico de gallo. Fold and press down with a spatula.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crisp.
Remove from heat, then cut into 3 pieces. Repeat with the remaining quesadillas.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Check out our recipe for Crock Pot Picadillo to go with these tasty quesadillas!

Nutrition

Calories: 349.33kcal
Fat: 20.53g
Saturated Fat: 9.59g
Trans Fat: 0.55g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.07g
Carbohydrates: 26.42g
Fiber: 1.37g
Sugar: 1.81g
Protein: 15.14g
Cholesterol: 46.94mg
Sodium: 662.02mg
Calcium: 395.00mg
Potassium: 134.94mg
Iron: 1.78mg
Vitamin A: 126.39µg
Vitamin C: 4.64mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Picadillo Quesadillas

When preparing your quesadillas, it's important to not overload them with fillings. A common mistake is to pile on too much picadillo, cheese, and pico de gallo. This can result in a messy eating experience and the flavors becoming too overwhelming. Instead, aim for a balanced ratio of tortilla to filling. This will ensure that every bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Also, remember to press down the quesadilla with a spatula after folding, this helps to seal the edges and keeps the filling from spilling out during cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Picadillo Quesadillas

Prep ahead: Prepare the picadillo and pico de gallo in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save time when assembling the quesadillas.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Multi-task: While cooking the quesadillas, use your time efficiently by preparing other components of the meal simultaneously, such as setting the table or preparing a side dish.

Invest in a good skillet: Using a high-quality nonstick skillet will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, saving you time on cleanup and ensuring perfectly cooked quesadillas.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of picadillo and pico de gallo, then freeze the extra portions for future use. This will save time on prep for future meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe

cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley has a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to cilantro, making it a suitable substitute for those who dislike the taste of cilantro.
whole wheat flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free alternative and provide a slightly different texture and flavor to the quesadillas.
cheddar jack - Substitute with Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack cheese has a mild and creamy flavor similar to cheddar jack, making it a suitable substitute for a slightly different taste profile.

Picadillo Quesadillas: Presentation Ideas

Elevate the quesadilla: Instead of serving the quesadilla as a whole, consider cutting it into smaller, bite-sized pieces to create an elegant and refined presentation. This will make it easier for the judges to taste and appreciate the flavors in each bite.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce elements of visual appeal by incorporating colorful garnishes such as a sprinkle of finely diced tomato and cilantro on the plate. This will add a pop of freshness and vibrancy to the overall presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the quesadilla is neatly positioned, and the pico de gallo is delicately spooned alongside it. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the quesadilla to stand out as the focal point. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive garnishes, allowing the dish to take center stage.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Consider drizzling a lime-infused crema in an artistic manner on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also complements the flavors of the quesadilla.
Emphasize symmetry: Aim for symmetrical plating to create a visually appealing presentation. This can be achieved by positioning the quesadilla and accompanying elements thoughtfully on the plate, creating a sense of balance and harmony.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for minimalist designs that allow the quesadilla to take center stage while exuding sophistication.
Incorporate microgreens: Introduce delicate microgreens as a final garnish to add a touch of elegance and a subtle hint of earthy flavors. The addition of microgreens will elevate the overall aesthetic of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Picadillo Quesadillas

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make dough, sauces, and various other culinary preparations.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or plastic.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is an essential tool for cooking quesadillas and other dishes.
Spatula: A spatula is a kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients. It is essential for assembling and flipping quesadillas.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and chopping ingredients, such as tomatoes, scallions, and cilantro, for making pico de gallo and preparing the picadillo.

Storing and Freezing Picadillo Quesadillas

To store leftover quesadillas, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the quesadillas for later, wrap each one individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen quesadillas, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, unwrap the quesadillas and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat. Spray the skillet with cooking spray and cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy.
If you have leftover picadillo filling, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Picadillo Quesadillas

The best way to reheat leftover picadillo quesadillas is in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This method will help to crisp up the tortilla and melt the cheese while heating the picadillo filling evenly.
To start, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the leftover quesadilla on the hot surface and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
If you prefer a softer quesadilla, you can reheat it in the microwave. Place the quesadilla on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 30-45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through. However, keep in mind that the tortilla may become slightly soggy when reheated in the microwave.
Another option is to reheat the quesadilla in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the quesadilla on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover picadillo quesadillas. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the quesadilla in the basket. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on the quesadilla to prevent it from burning or becoming too crispy. Once the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy to your liking, remove the quesadilla from the heat and let it cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Random Fact About Picadillo Quesadillas

Picadillo quesadillas are a popular Mexican dish that combines the flavors of savory picadillo and gooey melted cheese in a crispy tortilla. This dish is a great way to use up leftover picadillo and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this picadillo quesadillas recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. Ground beef, vegetables, and cheese are generally affordable, making this a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the ingredients also allows for variations based on what's on sale or in season, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $15-$20.

Is Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The picadillo quesadillas recipe is a relatively healthy option, as it incorporates whole wheat tortillas, which provide fiber and nutrients. The inclusion of homemade pico de gallo adds freshness and a boost of vitamins from the cilantro, tomato, and scallion. However, the recipe does rely on cheese as a main ingredient, which can contribute to high levels of saturated fat and sodium.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a low-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content
Add more vegetables to the picadillo filling, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, to increase the nutrient density and fiber
Use a lean protein source for the picadillo, such as ground turkey or chicken, instead of beef to lower the fat content
Swap the whole wheat tortillas for a grain-free option, like almond flour or cassava flour tortillas, for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet
Serve the quesadillas with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Recipe

This picadillo quesadilla recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of savory picadillo, gooey cheese, and zesty pico de gallo creates a mouthwatering experience. The use of whole wheat flour tortillas adds a wholesome element to the dish. The cooking process ensures a perfect balance of crispiness and cheesiness, making each bite a delight. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate the classic quesadilla with a touch of Latin flair. It's a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal that will surely impress your taste buds.

Enhance Your Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a creamy and flavorful guacamole with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a hint of garlic for the perfect accompaniment to the picadillo quesadillas.

Mexican Street Corn: Elevate your meal with charred corn on the cob smothered in a tangy and creamy sauce, sprinkled with crumbled cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder for a burst of flavor.

Churros: Indulge in a sweet and crispy dessert of churros, dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a side of warm chocolate dipping sauce for a satisfying end to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Picadillo Quesadillas

Spicy Beef Tacos: Use ground beef seasoned with a blend of spices, then top with your favorite taco toppings for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Marinate chicken in a flavorful mango salsa, then grill or bake for a tropical twist on a classic chicken dish.

Vegetable Stir-Fry: Stir-fry a colorful mix of vegetables with your choice of protein and a savory sauce for a quick and healthy meal packed with flavor.

Banana Bread Pudding: Turn ripe bananas and day-old bread into a comforting and indulgent bread pudding, perfect for dessert or brunch.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Picadillo Quesadillas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a satisfying and comforting snack.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a velvety smooth strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious strawberry topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Why trust this Picadillo Quesadillas Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of savory picadillo and gooey cheddar jack cheese, paired with the freshness of homemade pico de gallo, guarantees a burst of flavors in every bite. The use of whole wheat flour tortillas adds a wholesome touch, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste. With the perfect balance of textures and flavors, this quesadilla recipe is a surefire hit for any occasion. Trust in the quality and authenticity of these ingredients to elevate your culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on the Picadillo Quesadillas recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

What is picadillo?

Picadillo is a traditional Latin American dish made with ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of other ingredients. It's often seasoned with a blend of spices and can include ingredients like olives, raisins, and capers for a sweet and savory flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the quesadillas?

Absolutely! While cheddar jack is a popular choice for quesadillas, you can get creative with your cheese selection. Try using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a crumbly queso fresco for a unique twist.

Can I make the picadillo ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the picadillo ahead of time. In fact, making it in advance can allow the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in a more delicious filling for your quesadillas.

What are some optional toppings for the quesadillas?

You can customize your quesadillas with a variety of toppings. Some popular options include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of whole wheat flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be a fantastic alternative to whole wheat flour tortillas. They offer a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.