Easy and Cheesy Beef Tortilla with Caramelized Red Onion (Video)

Directions

• Preparation
  Start by preparing the caramelized onions. In a small casserole pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and sauté for 1 minute until slightly softened. Stir in the brown sugar and lower the heat. Let the onions caramelize slowly for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the balsamic vinegar, mix well, and cook until the onions are soft and glossy. Set aside.
  In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with black pepper, salt, paprika, and minced garlic. Use your hands to knead the mixture thoroughly, ensuring all spices are evenly distributed. Let it rest while you make the cheddar sauce.
• Cooking
  To prepare the cheese sauce, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and whisk until it forms a golden roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Keep stirring for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens. Add a pinch of salt and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and creamy. Remove from heat and keep warm.
  Heat a nonstick pan (ideally one for pancakes) and lightly grease it. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture over one side of a tortilla. Place the tortilla meat-side down in the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes until browned. Flip the tortilla carefully using a spatula.
• Finishing Touches
  Once flipped, begin layering your fillings. Add sliced pickles, one tablespoon each of red beans and corn, a spoonful of caramelized onions, and a few strips of iceberg lettuce. Let the tortilla toast for another 30 seconds, then fold it gently in half using the spatula. Press lightly to seal and remove from the pan. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  Drizzle each folded melt with warm cheddar sauce. You can also add a spoonful of cheese sauce inside before folding for an extra cheesy bite.
• Serving
  Serve hot, directly from the pan, with extra cheddar sauce on the side if desired. These tortilla melts are perfect as a main dish or a shared appetizer. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a light yogurt dip.