Taco Bell Steak Quesadilla Copycat
A delicious blend of tender steak, melted cheese, and creamy jalapeño sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla - a perfect weeknight dinner or taco night treat.
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise for a creamy base
- 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños, minced to add that essential spice
- 1 tbsp pickle juice adding tang and depth
- ¼ cup buttermilk for a touch of richness
- ½ tsp chili powder infusing warmth and flavor
- ½ tsp paprika to enhance color and taste
- ½ tsp onion powder adding aromatic essence
- ¼ tsp garlic powder for subtle depth
- ¼ tsp cocoa powder a surprising flavor enhancer
- 1 tsp minced onion for fresh crunch
- to taste salt enhancing all the other flavors
For the quesadilla
- 4 pieces burrito-size flour tortillas the perfect wrap for our filling
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain juicy and flavorful
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil) for cooking the steak
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded for classic cheesy flavor
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded adding stretchiness
- ½ cup American cheese, sliced or shredded for creaminess
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded enhancing overall texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Thinly slice the sirloin steak against the grain. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it rest to marinate.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced jalapeños, pickle juice, buttermilk, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cocoa powder, minced onion, and salt until smooth. Refrigerate.
Cook the Steak
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Add seasoned steak slices and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Warm the Tortillas
- In a clean skillet over medium heat, warm each tortilla for a few seconds on each side until pliable.
Assemble the Quesadilla
- Spread creamy jalapeño sauce on one side of each tortilla. Layer cheese blend and cooked steak on the other half.
Cook the Quesadillas
- Fold each tortilla in half and cook in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
For best results, marinate steak beforehand. Experiment with cheese blends and use fresh tortillas for an elevated experience. Consider adding sautéed vegetables for a nutrition boost.