If you love a juicy smashburger and can’t resist a crispy, cheesy quesadilla, why not combine them into one? That’s exactly what happens with these Smashburger Quesadillas, and let me tell you—they’re absolutely next-level! Just imagine tender seasoned beef, golden brown tortillas, and gooey melted cheese all pressed together into a handheld masterpiece. Yes, it’s every bit as good as it sounds.
These Smashburger Quesadillas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, game day appetizer, or indulgent weekend treat. They bring together the bold, savory flavors of a classic smashburger with the crispy edges and cheesy middle of your favorite quesadilla. Anything but boring!!
Why You’ll Love These Smashburger Quesadillas
Let’s be honest—sometimes you just want comfort food without the fuss. And that’s where this recipe shines. Here’s why you’ll want to make these on repeat:
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in about 20 minutes.
- Crispy and Cheesy: The tortillas get perfectly golden and crispy while the cheese melts into ooey-gooey goodness.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters won’t say no to beef and cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla!
- Customizable: Add pickles, onions, or any of your favorite burger toppings inside or on the side.
- One Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
What Do Smashburger Quesadillas Taste Like?
Take the rich, savory beefiness of a smashburger, fold it into a tortilla, and melt a generous amount of cheddar over the top. The result? A perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, meaty goodness that hits all the right notes.
The beef is seasoned simply—just salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder—so it’s full of flavor without being complicated. The cheese brings the creaminess, while the crispy tortilla adds that satisfying crunch. You’ll get the essence of a backyard burger night wrapped up in a fun, sharable quesadilla format.
Benefits of This Recipe
- High in Protein: Thanks to the ground beef and cheese, this dish will keep you full and satisfied.
- Kid-Friendly: No complicated ingredients or unfamiliar flavors—just beef, cheese, and tortillas.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can cook the beef ahead of time and assemble the quesadillas when you’re ready to eat.
- Perfect for Parties: Cut them into wedges and serve as finger food for game day or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients for Smashburger Quesadillas
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering recipe:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for crispier tortillas)
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, diced onions, ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula (a smashburger-style metal spatula works great for pressing)
- Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)
- Cutting board and knife (for optional toppings)
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! You can easily make this recipe your own:
- Different Cheese: Try American cheese slices for an even more classic smashburger vibe, or pepper jack for some heat.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the beef if you prefer a lighter protein.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Dice some onions, mushrooms, or peppers and cook them with the beef for extra flavor.
How to Make Smashburger Quesadillas
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to press it down like you would a smashburger. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and crispy in spots, breaking it up into crumbles but keeping some texture.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay out your tortillas. On half of each tortilla, sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar and mozzarella. Top with cooked beef, then another layer of cheese (this helps the tortilla stick together when folded). Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter if you like extra crispiness. Place the quesadillas in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Cut each quesadilla into wedges. Garnish with chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy (I’m kicking myself for not having shot it with extra sauce drizzled on top!). Serve hot with your favorite burger-style toppings on the side.
What to Serve with Smashburger Quesadillas
These pair well with:
Crispy fries or tater tots
- A simple side salad
- Pickles and dipping sauces (think burger sauce, ranch, or spicy ketchup)
- Sweet potato fries for a fun twist
Tips for Making the Best Smashburger Quesadillas
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling will make the quesadillas fall apart. A good rule of thumb is about ¼ cup of beef per tortilla.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent melting as smoothly.
- Press with a Spatula: This helps the quesadilla crisp up evenly and stay together.
- Serve Immediately: These are best hot off the skillet when the cheese is melty and the tortillas are crispy.
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Use a skillet to bring back the crispness—microwaving will make them soggy.
- Freezer Friendly: You can freeze cooked quesadillas for up to 2 months. Just wrap them individually and reheat in a skillet or oven.
General Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Assemble your quesadillas, then air fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best beef for this recipe?
I recommend 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest results. Leaner beef works but won’t have quite the same flavor.
Can I add sauces inside the quesadilla?
You can! A light smear of burger sauce, ketchup, or mustard inside the tortilla can add even more burger flavor.
Are these spicy?
Not at all—unless you add spicy cheese or jalapeños, which you totally can if that’s your thing!
Conclusion
Smashburger Quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food mashup—crispy, cheesy, and packed with juicy beef flavor. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a fun dinner, a party snack, or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
If you loved this, be sure to check out other fun recipes featuring ground beef or cheesy twists like:
- Cheeseburger Sliders with Secret Sauce
- Loaded Beef and Cheese Nachos
- Bacon Cheeseburger Dip
Share Your Creation!
Did you make these Smashburger Quesadillas? Snap a photo and share it on Pinterest! I’d love to see your cheesy, crispy creations.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
Smashburger Quesadillas: The Ultimate Cheesy, Beefy Mashup You Need to Try
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Smashburger Quesadillas are the perfect fusion of two comfort food classics! This quick and easy recipe combines juicy ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and crispy tortillas. It’s like your favorite burger and cheesy quesadilla got together—and it’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for crispier tortillas)
– Optional toppings: sliced pickles, diced onions, ketchup, mustard, burger sauce
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and smash it down with a spatula to mimic a smashburger texture. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned with crispy edges, breaking it up slightly but leaving some larger pieces.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas:
Place the tortillas flat. On half of each tortilla, add a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Spoon the cooked beef over the cheese, then top with another small handful of cheese. Fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.
3. Cook the Quesadillas:
In a clean skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter (optional for extra crispiness). Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
4. Slice and Serve:
Cut each quesadilla into wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite burger toppings like pickles, diced onions, and dipping sauces.
Notes
These Smashburger Quesadillas are best served hot, right off the skillet.
The cheese will be perfectly melted, and the tortillas crispy and golden.
For extra crispiness, press the quesadillas down gently while cooking.
Prep the ground beef ahead of time to make this recipe even faster on busy nights.
Add pickles, diced onions, or burger sauce for a true smashburger flavor experience.
These also make a great party appetizer just slice into small wedges and serve with dips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Keywords: smashburger quesadillas, burger quesadilla, easy beef quesadilla, cheesy quesadilla, skillet recipes, quick dinner, comfort food, burger mashup, ground beef quesadilla
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