why make this recipe

Smashburger quesadillas are a fun twist on two classic favorites: burgers and quesadillas. They combine the juicy, flavorful meat of a smashburger with the crispy, cheesy goodness of a quesadilla. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, a weekend treat, or a gathering with friends. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a meal everyone will enjoy.

how to make smashburger quesadillas

Ingredients:

1 lb Ground beef (80/20 blend) (Form into 2–3 oz balls)
1 tsp Salt
½ tsp Black pepper
½ tsp Garlic powder
½ tsp Onion powder
4 large Flour tortillas
1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices American cheese
2 tbsp Butter (For grilling tortillas)
¼ cup Diced onions
¼ cup Pickles (Diced or sliced)
½ cup Lettuce or shredded cabbage
½ cup Diced tomatoes
2 tbsp Sliced jalapeños
¼ cup Mayonnaise
2 tbsp Ketchup
1 tbsp Mustard
1 tsp Relish or pickle juice
½ tsp Hot sauce (Optional)

Directions:

Form ground beef into 2–3 oz balls. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder.
Shred cheese and prep toppings.
Preheat a cast iron skillet on high until smoking.
Place a beef ball on the skillet, press a tortilla firmly on top, and smash hard with a spatula or the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until crispy.
Flip the quesadilla so the tortilla is on the bottom. Add cheese and toppings to one side while the beef finishes cooking.
Fold the tortilla over, press gently, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is melted.
Slice in half and serve immediately with sauce.

how to serve smashburger quesadillas

Serve your smashburger quesadillas hot and fresh, right off the skillet. They are great on their own, but you can add dipping sauces like mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, or a spicy hot sauce for extra flavor. You can also serve them with a side of lettuce, diced tomatoes, or other fresh toppings for a complete meal.

how to store smashburger quesadillas

If you have leftover quesadillas, let them cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet on low heat until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick option.

tips to make smashburger quesadillas

Use a high-fat blend of ground beef like 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness.
Make sure your skillet is hot enough before cooking to get that crispy texture.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or toppings to suit your taste.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it adds a lot of flavor to the meat.

variation

You can customize your smashburger quesadillas by changing the meats or adding different toppings. Try using chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based burger for a lighter version. You can also include different vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the meat ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can cook the seasoned ground beef earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the quesadillas.

Q: What kind of cheese works best?
A: Cheddar and American cheese blend well for flavor and meltiness. You can also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or any cheese you enjoy.

Q: Can I freeze the quesadillas?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked quesadillas for up to a month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or skillet when you’re ready to eat them.