Introduction
became my go-to recipe after that crazy-busy month when I was testing recipes for my cookbook. You know those evenings when you want something that feels fancy but doesn't require a culinary degree? This is it! The tender strips of marinated steak, melty cheese (lots of it!), and that smoky-creamy chipotle sauce just... work. I've served these at everything from casual Tuesday dinners to Super Bowl parties, and honestly? They disappear faster than my kids' screen time on a weekend. The secret's in that crema - it's absolutely addictive.
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced against the grain (skirt steak works too!)
- 8 large flour tortillas (I love the uncooked ones from Trader Joe's)
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend (or just monterey jack - whatever's in your fridge)
- 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat, please - life's too short)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste (be generous!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinade the Steak
Mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and cumin in a bowl. Season your steak generously - like, more than you think you need! Let it hang out for 15 mins while you prep everything else. Trust me, even this quick marinade makes a HUGE difference.
Step 2: Make the Chipotle Crema
Okay, this is where the magic happens! Blend 1-2 chipotle peppers (depending how brave you're feeling) with a spoonful of adobo sauce and the sour cream until smooth. Sometimes I add a tiny splash of lime juice too. Set aside and try not to eat it all with a spoon... been there 😅
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat your heaviest skillet until it's smoking hot - like, really hot. Cook the steak for about 3-4 mins per side. The sizzle should be LOUD! Let it rest for 5 mins (I know it's tempting, but don't skip this), then slice thin.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
Layer cheese, steak, and a bit more cheese between tortillas. The double cheese thing? Total game-changer. Cook in a dry skillet until golden and crispy, about 2-3 mins per side. Steak Quesadillas with Chipotle Crema The cheese should be doing that gorgeous melty thing that makes everyone gather in the kitchen.
Healthier Alternatives
Look, I've tried making these "healthy" and... well, some tweaks actually work! Use corn tort
