January 11, 2025

philly cheesesteak quesadilla

Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

Did you know that nearly 70% of Americans consider quesadillas one of their favorite quick meals? This statistic highlights just how popular this dish can be, and when you combine it with the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, you create a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and convenient. You might wonder how this fusion came to be and what makes it so appealing. Exploring the origin and the simple recipe could reveal some surprising twists that elevate your weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you take a bite of this Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a game changer for weeknight dinners. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of a quesadilla, making it both delicious and easy to prepare.

You’ll love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

The ingredients are simple: tender beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and plenty of gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. You can customize it to your taste by adding mushrooms, jalapeños, or even different types of cheese. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers if you have any.

Cooking this quesadilla is straightforward. Just cook the beef with the vegetables, layer everything between tortillas, and grill them until golden brown. It’s that easy!

You’ll find it’s perfect for a family dinner, and it’s even great for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time, freeze them, and heat them up on busy nights.

Ultimately, this Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla is a versatile dish that satisfies everyone at the table.

History

The Philly cheesesteak has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century in Philadelphia.

It’s believed that the sandwich was invented in the 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor. One day, he decided to grill some beef on his grill and put it in a sandwich. A cab driver passing by smelled the delicious aroma and asked for one. This simple meal quickly gained popularity among locals.

As word spread, other vendors began to sell their own versions. Over the years, the cheesesteak evolved, with variations emerging, such as adding sautéed onions or melted cheese. The original cheesesteak was made with thinly sliced ribeye beef and served on an Italian hoagie roll, a combination that became iconic in Philadelphia.

Today, you’ll find cheesesteaks all over the country, but they still hold a special place in the hearts of Philadelphians.

Many argue about which shop makes the best version, with famous spots like Pat’s and Geno’s competing for recognition. The Philly cheesesteak represents not just a meal, but a piece of Philadelphia’s culinary history, connecting generations of food lovers.

Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla is a delicious fusion that brings together the classic flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak and the convenience of a quesadilla. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.

The combination of tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey cheese melted between crispy tortillas takes comfort food to a whole new level.

This recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional cheesesteak or looking for a new twist, this quesadilla is sure to please everyone at the table.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that brings the best of both worlds together!

Ingredients:

1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
4 large flour tortillas
2 cups shredded provolone cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: hot sauce for serving

Cooking Instructions:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-5 minutes until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. Return the cooked steak to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables. Remove from heat.
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lay one tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle half of the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the tortilla. Then, add half of the steak and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese, followed by another layer of cheese. Finally, top with a second tortilla.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a large spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until golden and crispy.
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting it into wedges. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make a second quesadilla.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, use ribeye steak, as it’s tender and marbled, making it perfect for this dish.

If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the beef with grilled chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, to find your perfect combination.

Serve your quesadillas with hot sauce, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Enjoying a Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla is a delightful experience that combines the best of both worlds—classic cheesesteak flavors and the convenience of a quesadilla.

This dish isn’t only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy days or casual gatherings. You can customize your quesadilla to suit your taste by adding ingredients like sautéed onions, peppers, or different cheeses.

When you make this dish, remember to choose quality ingredients. Fresh steak, melty cheese, and soft tortillas create a satisfying meal.

Cooking the quesadilla until it’s golden and crispy guarantees a wonderful texture that contrasts nicely with the juicy filling.

As you serve your Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla, consider pairing it with sides like salsa or guacamole for an extra kick.

This dish is also perfect for sharing, which makes it ideal for parties or family dinners.

FAQ

If you’re curious about making the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla or have questions about the recipe, you’re in the right place. Here are some common FAQs to help you out.

What type of cheese should I use? The classic choice is provolone or Cheez Whiz, but you can also try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.

Can I use leftovers? Absolutely! Leftover steak, grilled vegetables, or even chicken works great. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

How do I get the quesadilla crispy? Use a non-stick skillet, and cook on medium heat. Adding a little oil or butter can help achieve that golden-brown exterior.

How long does it take to cook? It usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.

Can I add vegetables? Yes! Onions and bell peppers complement the flavors well. Just sauté them before adding to your quesadilla for the best results.

Now that you’ve got the answers, you’re all set to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla! Enjoy your cooking adventure!