Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe
Introduction
Smashburger quesadillas are a fun twist on a classic favorite that combines the juicy flavors of a smashed burger with crispy, melty quesadillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or game day snack, these quesadillas bring together savory beef and gooey cheese in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (to season)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- Optional: pickles, diced onions, burger sauce for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- Step 2: Press a small handful of ground beef directly onto one half of each tortilla, shaping it flat. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 3: Place the tortillas beef-side down on the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Step 4: Flip the tortillas carefully, sprinkle the cooked beef side with shredded cheese, then fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.
- Step 5: Grill both sides of the folded quesadilla until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes per side.
- Step 6: Remove from heat, slice into wedges, and serve with pickles, diced onions, and burger sauce if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of cheddar and American cheese for that classic burger melt and extra flavor.
- Try adding cooked bacon or jalapeños inside for a smoky or spicy twist.
- For a healthier option, swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas.
- Make mini quesadillas with small tortillas for easy party appetizers.
Storage
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and season it well for the best flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have a skillet or griddle?
You can use a nonstick frying pan to cook the quesadillas. A sandwich press or panini maker also works great for evenly crisping and melting the cheese.
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Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 quesadillas (serves 4) 1x
Description
Smashburger Quesadillas combine the savory flavors of ground beef with melted cheddar cheese, all sandwiched in a crispy flour tortilla. This easy skillet recipe delivers a juicy, cheesy twist on traditional quesadillas, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner served with your favorite burger toppings or dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
Quesadillas
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
Optional Toppings
- Pickles, sliced or chopped
- Diced onions
- Burger sauce for serving
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and allow it to warm up thoroughly to ensure proper cooking and crisping of the tortillas.
- Form and season the beef: Take a small handful of ground beef and press it directly onto one half of each tortilla. Season the beef generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to build flavor.
- Cook the beef side: Place the tortilla beef-side down on the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and partially cooked through.
- Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip the entire tortilla over, sprinkle the cheese over the cooked beef, then fold the tortilla in half enclosing the filling.
- Grill until crispy and melted: Continue to cook the quesadilla on both sides, flipping as needed, until the tortilla is golden and crispy and the cheese inside has melted completely, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Slice and serve: Remove the quesadillas from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve hot with optional burger toppings like pickles, diced onions, and burger sauce or your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For best results, use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned griddle to prevent sticking.
- You can substitute cheddar with American cheese for a creamier melt.
- Feel free to customize toppings with lettuce, tomatoes, or jalapeños for added flavor.
- If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef for a lighter version.
- Cook the quesadillas over medium-high heat to get a perfect crispy exterior without burning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smashburger quesadillas, ground beef quesadilla, cheesy quesadilla, skillet quesadilla, easy dinner, quick meal
