These Lazy Birria Quesadillas are packed with juicy, tender meat and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. They’re super easy and quick to make, perfect for a tasty meal!
I love how they come together with less work than traditional birria. Dip them in a delicious broth for extra flavor! Trust me, your taste buds will be celebrating! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Birria Meat: You can use either beef or goat, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded rotisserie chicken works really well too. Just make sure to season it well.
Cheese: While I recommend mozzarella for its meltiness, feel free to mix things up! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a nice kick.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas provide a nice chewy texture, but if you’re aiming for a healthier option, try whole wheat or corn tortillas. Just note they may cook a bit differently.
Onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness, but white or red onions can work too. If you’re after a milder flavor, consider using green onions.
Birria Broth: This adds depth, but if you don’t have it, a good beef or vegetable broth can work as a dip. You could also enhance it with a squeeze of lime for extra flavor!
How Do You Get the Quesadillas Crispy Without Burning Them?
Getting that perfect crispy quesadilla is all about heat control and timing. Here’s how to make sure they turn out just right:
- Use medium heat: This will help the cheese melt without burning the tortilla. If you find they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat a notch.
- Add oil or butter generously to the skillet: This helps achieve that nice golden color and crispiness.
- Don’t overload with filling: Keep it balanced! Too much filling can make it hard to flip and can prevent crisping up.
- Let it cook: Don’t rush the process! Allow each side to cook for about 3-4 minutes until you see a nice golden hue.
- Let cool slightly before cutting: This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to cut into neat wedges.
How to Make Lazy Birria Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Filling:
- 2 cups cooked birria meat (beef or goat, shredded)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tortillas and Cheese:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (or cheese of your choice, shredded)
- Cooking oil or butter, as needed for frying
Garnish and Dipping:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 cup birria broth (optional, for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and cooking time, plus a little extra if you have to cook the birria meat beforehand. This recipe is quick and easy, giving you delicious quesadillas in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by mixing the shredded birria meat with half of the chopped onion in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add some salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything well so all the flavors combine nicely. This will be your tasty filling!
2. Heat the Tortilla:
Take a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter and let it heat up. This will help the quesadilla get that nice crispy texture.
3. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Once your skillet is hot, place one tortilla in it. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Next, load on a generous amount of the birria meat mixture. Don’t forget to add another layer of cheese on top before covering it all with a second tortilla.
4. Cook the Quesadilla:
Let the quesadilla cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. You’re looking for a nice golden brown color and for the cheese to start melting. Then, carefully flip the quesadilla over using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it is golden and crispy.
5. Repeat:
When the quesadilla is done, take it out of the skillet and keep it warm while you cook the rest. Just repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling until you have a stack of delicious quesadillas!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once all your quesadillas are ready, slice them into wedges. Sprinkle the remaining chopped onions and fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. Serve them up hot with the optional birria broth on the side for dipping, and enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Lazy Birria Quesadillas!
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a great alternative and will add a nice authentic flavor. Just make sure to warm them slightly in a skillet before assembling the quesadilla to make them more pliable and prevent cracking.
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella Cheese?
You can substitute mozzarella with any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly based on your choice!
How Do I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side or warm them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
Can I Freeze These Quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Assemble the quesadillas but don’t cook them. Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, cook them from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes cooking time!
