Smashburger Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smashburger Quesadillas offer the best of both worlds: the savory flavor of a smashburger paired with the cheesy goodness of a quesadilla. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and customizable with your favorite burger toppings. Whether you’re craving a fun weeknight dinner or need a quick snack for game day, these quesadillas are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re crispy, melty, and totally satisfying, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

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

• 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

Directions

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.

2. Press a small handful of ground beef directly onto one half of each tortilla. Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

3. Cook the beef side down for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to brown.

4. Flip the tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, then fold it in half.

5. Grill both sides of the folded tortilla until crispy and the cheese is melty.

6. Slice and serve with your favorite burger toppings like pickles, onions, or burger sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 quesadillas

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

• Toppings: Add lettuce, tomatoes, or even other burger-style toppings to make the quesadillas more like a full-on burger.

• Seasonings: Customize the seasoning blend with your favorite spices, such as onion powder or smoked paprika, for an extra burst of flavor.

• Vegan: Swap out the beef for plant-based ground meat and use dairy-free cheese to create a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until crispy, or heat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to season it well to bring out the flavors.

2. Can I make Smashburger Quesadillas ahead of time?

While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beef and assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then, simply grill them when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas, but flour tortillas provide a better texture and flexibility for folding and grilling in this recipe.

4. How do I make the quesadillas extra crispy?

To make them extra crispy, cook them a little longer on each side, but be careful not to burn them. Using a bit of butter or oil in the skillet can also help.

5. What kind of cheese works best for these quesadillas?

Cheddar and American cheese are the most commonly used for their meltability, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.

6. Can I make this recipe without a skillet or griddle?

If you don’t have a skillet or griddle, you can use a non-stick pan or even bake the quesadillas in the oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.

7. Can I freeze these quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze them! After grilling, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet when ready to enjoy.

8. What toppings should I add to my Smashburger Quesadillas?

Popular toppings include pickles, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, or a drizzle of burger sauce or mustard. Get creative with your favorite burger fixings!

9. Can I make a double batch of this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to serve more people. Just make sure your skillet or griddle is large enough to cook multiple quesadillas at once.

10. Can I add vegetables to the quesadillas?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Smashburger Quesadillas are the perfect comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. This easy recipe combines the best parts of a burger and a quesadilla, making it a quick, satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a fun snack, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit. So, fire up your skillet and enjoy this flavor-packed treat tonight!