Smashburger Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smashburger quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The seasoned ground beef gives the quesadilla that savory, juicy burger taste, while the melty cheese and crispy tortillas create the perfect texture contrast. With the option to add pickles, onions, or burger sauce, you can customize these quesadillas to your taste. Whether for a quick dinner or a fun snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone!

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
2. Cook the beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a small amount of cheese on top.
4. Spoon a portion of the cooked ground beef onto the tortilla and top with more shredded cheese.
5. Place a second tortilla on top, pressing it down gently.
6. Cook the quesadilla on both sides for about 2-3 minutes each, or until the tortillas are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.
7. Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges.
8. Serve with optional pickles, diced onions, and burger sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 15-17 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
• Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Veggie Options: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the ground beef for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or microwave for 30-45 seconds. For a crispy texture, reheating in a skillet is recommended.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to suit the lighter flavor.

Are these quesadillas gluten-free?

No, these quesadillas are made with flour tortillas, which contain gluten. You can use gluten-free tortillas to make them gluten-free.

Can I add extra toppings to the quesadilla?

Absolutely! You can add pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, or even a fried egg to give the quesadilla a burger-like feel.

Can I make these quesadillas in advance?

You can prepare the beef and assemble the quesadillas in advance, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the crispiest texture.

How do I make sure the cheese melts perfectly inside?

Be sure to use a moderate heat and let the quesadilla cook on each side until the cheese has fully melted, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

What is burger sauce?

Burger sauce is a creamy condiment often made with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices. It adds extra flavor and is a great addition to these quesadillas.

Can I freeze leftover quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze leftover quesadillas. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, cook them in a skillet or oven until heated through.

How do I make the quesadillas extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, brush a small amount of butter or oil on the tortillas before cooking them. This will help achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.

What are the best toppings for smashburger quesadillas?

Pickles, onions, burger sauce, and even lettuce are all great options. Customize with your favorite burger toppings for the perfect combination!

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

While cheese adds a wonderful creamy texture, you can make the quesadillas without it, though they might lack some of the richness. You could also try a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Smashburger quesadillas are a creative and tasty twist on two beloved dishes, combining the heartiness of a smashburger with the crispiness and cheese of a quesadilla. They’re quick, easy to make, and customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, a snack, or a casual gathering, these quesadillas will be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the perfect mix of flavors in every bite!

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