Spicy Chorizo-Style Ground Beef Quesadillas with Sautéed Poblano Peppers and Queso Oaxaca

Ingredients

• 1 cup, drained Western Family Diced Tomatoes
• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20)
• 2 tbsp (divided) PANACHE Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 (sliced) Poblano Peppers
• 1/2 (sliced) Yellow Onion
• 4 cloves (minced) Garlic
• 1 tbsp Ancho Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 6 Flour Tortillas (large)
• 2 cups (shredded, can substitute with Monterey Jack) Queso Oaxaca
• For serving Lime Wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare Chorizo-Style Ground Beef: In a large bowl, combine ground beef with ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the spices. *Flavor Enhancement:* Using a mortar and pestle to grind the spices beforehand can release more of their aroma and flavor. Adjust the amount of chili powder to your spice preference.
2. Sauté Poblano Peppers: Heat 1 tbsp PANACHE Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced poblano peppers and yellow onion, and cook until softened and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes. *Technique Refinement:* Charring the peppers adds a smoky flavor that complements the chorizo-style beef.
3. Cook Ground Beef: Heat the remaining 1 tbsp PANACHE Extra Virgin Olive Oil in the same skillet. Add the seasoned ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. *Flavor Enhancement:* Deglazing the pan with a splash of beer or beef broth after browning the beef can add depth of flavor.
4. Warm Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. *Technique Refinement:* Lightly brushing the tortillas with olive oil before heating them will make them more pliable and prevent them from tearing.
5. Assemble Quesadillas: Sprinkle shredded Queso Oaxaca on one half of each tortilla. Top with the chorizo-style ground beef, sautéed poblano peppers and onions, and drained Western Family Diced Tomatoes. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
6. Cook Quesadillas: Cook the quesadillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey, about 3-4 minutes per side. *Technique Refinement:* Press down on the quesadillas with a spatula as they cook to ensure even browning and melting of the cheese.
7. Serve: Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately with lime wedges. *Flavor Enhancement:* Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite salsa.

Cuisine: Mexican

Suitability:

Prep Time: mins

Cook Time: mins

Serving Size:

Meal Type: dinner