Keto-Friendly Loaded Steak Quesadillas

If you’re craving a savory, satisfying meal but want to stick to your low-carb or keto lifestyle, this Keto-Friendly Loaded Steak Quesadilla recipe is perfect. We’ve taken the traditional quesadilla, which typically features a flour tortilla, and swapped in keto-friendly alternatives. The result is a mouthwatering, guilt-free, and protein-packed dish that won’t kick you out of ketosis.

This version is loaded with tender, juicy steak, plenty of melty cheese, and a variety of fresh, flavorful ingredients, all wrapped up in a keto-friendly tortilla. Whether you’re hosting a low-carb dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a delicious keto snack, these quesadillas will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals.

Ingredients for Keto Loaded Steak Quesadillas:

The following ingredients are optimized for a keto diet, ensuring you stay within your daily carb limits while enjoying a delicious meal.

For the Quesadilla:

  • 2 medium-sized steak fillets (about 8 oz each, such as ribeye or flank steak)
  • 4 low-carb tortillas (store-bought or homemade with almond flour, coconut flour, or other keto-friendly options)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the steak and sautéing veggies)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for the quesadilla filling)
  • 1 medium red onion, finely sliced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced (you can use green, red, or yellow, but red adds a nice sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional for a kick of heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin (for a smoky flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (adds depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like Monterey Jack and cheddar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for dipping)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

Optional Toppings:

  • Avocado slices
  • Salsa (sugar-free and low-carb, if desired)
  • Lime wedges for extra flavor

Instructions for Keto-Friendly Loaded Steak Quesadillas:

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by seasoning your steak fillets with a generous pinch of salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. These spices will enhance the natural flavors of the steak without adding any extra carbs. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Place the seasoned steaks into the hot skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your steak more or less done. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the steak retain its juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.

After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the butter and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the final minute of cooking and sauté until fragrant.

Once the vegetables are tender, season them with a little salt, pepper, and more cumin or chili powder, if desired. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla

Now that the steak and vegetables are ready, it’s time to assemble your keto-friendly quesadillas. Using 2 low-carb tortillas, place a tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Spread a small handful of cheddar and mozzarella cheese onto the tortilla.

Add an even layer of the sautéed vegetables, followed by the sliced steak. Top with more shredded cheese to ensure the quesadilla holds together during cooking. Place the second tortilla on top, gently pressing down to compact the filling.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla

In the same skillet or on a griddle, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, carefully place the assembled quesadilla into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the tortilla crisp up. Flip the quesadilla carefully once the bottom is golden brown and crispy.

Once both sides are crispy and the cheese has melted, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before cutting into wedges.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once your quesadilla is cooked to perfection, cut it into 4-6 wedges. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado slices, salsa, or a squeeze of lime juice for an added burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a finishing touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Each serving contains approximately 2-3 quesadilla wedges. The nutritional breakdown is as follows:

  • Calories: 400-450 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10-12g
    • Fiber: 5g
    • Net Carbs: 5-7g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Sodium: 650-700mg
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

SmartPoints (WW Points):

For those following Weight Watchers, the SmartPoints for this Keto-Friendly Loaded Steak Quesadilla recipe is approximately 8 SmartPoints per serving, depending on the type of cheese and toppings used.

Why This Keto-Friendly Quesadilla Is a Must-Try:

1. High in Protein, Low in Carbs

The combination of steak, cheese, and vegetables offers a satisfying meal that’s rich in protein but low in carbohydrates. This is ideal for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet as it helps to keep you full for longer while still supporting fat loss and muscle maintenance.

2. Flavor-Packed

Traditional quesadillas are often bland and lack variety in flavor. This version is loaded with spices such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving it a depth of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds without added sugar or carbs.

3. Customizable

Feel free to get creative with the fillings and toppings. Swap out the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp, add different vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, or try a different type of cheese to suit your personal preferences.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

You can easily make a batch of these keto-friendly quesadillas, slice them into smaller portions, and store them in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat them in the skillet or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal anytime you need it.

5. Great for the Whole Family

Even if your family members are not following a keto diet, they will still love these quesadillas. You can simply serve them with a regular tortilla for the non-keto crowd while you enjoy the low-carb version.

Tips for Success:

  • Use a high-quality steak: The flavor of the steak will really shine through in this dish, so choose a cut that you enjoy, such as ribeye or flank steak.
  • Make sure to rest the steak: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain the juices, ensuring it’s tender and flavorful when sliced.
  • Don’t skimp on the cheese: The cheese is what makes the quesadilla crispy and helps bind everything together. Using a mixture of sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides the best texture and flavor.

Alternatives and Variations:

  • Keto Tortillas: You can find keto-friendly tortillas in many grocery stores, or you can make your own using almond flour or coconut flour.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and load up on sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like their food with extra heat.

Conclusion:

This Keto-Friendly Loaded Steak Quesadilla is the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. With its hearty steak filling, melted cheese, and satisfying vegetables, this meal will leave you feeling full and content. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional quesadilla while staying true to your dietary goals. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

I hope this is helpful! You can adjust quantities and ingredients based on specific dietary needs, and of course, the nutritional breakdown is approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Let me know if you’d like me to tweak anything or provide additional details!