Smashburger Quesadillas – Crispy, Cheesy Recipe

Introduction

Smashburger quesadillas combine crispy, cheesy goodness with flavorful seasoned beef for a satisfying meal. Easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these quesadillas bring a fun twist to a classic favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
• 8 slices American, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese (or 2 cups shredded)
• Optional toppings: caramelized onions, sliced pickles, jalapeños
• Optional sauces: smash sauce, chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently to incorporate the seasonings without overworking the meat.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the beef into 4 balls and place one in the skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly to flatten into a thin patty. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned and crispy, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with remaining beef.
3. Step 3: Remove the patties and let them rest briefly. Wipe the skillet if needed and reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Step 4: Place a tortilla in the skillet. Layer half the cheese slices evenly over the tortilla, then add the cooked beef patty. Add any optional toppings you like.
5. Step 5: Add remaining cheese over the toppings, then cover with another tortilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden and the cheese starts melting.
6. Step 6: Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until golden and cheese is fully melted.
7. Step 7: Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges. Serve with your favorite optional sauces.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, brush the tortillas lightly with melted butter before cooking.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for extra brightness.
• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack for a melty and flavorful combination.

Storage

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the exterior crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the beef patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before assembling the quesadillas.

What cheese works best for these quesadillas?

Cheeses that melt well, such as American, cheddar, or pepper jack, are ideal. You can use sliced or shredded cheese depending on your preference.

Smashburger Quesadillas – Crispy, Cheesy Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

Smashburger Quesadillas are a deliciously crispy and cheesy fusion dish combining the juicy flavors of smashed ground beef with melty cheese inside warm, golden tortillas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, these quesadillas bring the best of classic smashburger flavors in an easy-to-make handheld form with optional toppings and sauces to customize your bite.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 quesadillas 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder

Quesadilla

• 4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
• 8 slices American, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese (or 2 cups shredded)

Optional Toppings & Sauces

• Caramelized onions
• Sliced pickles
• Jalapeños
• Smash sauce
• Chipotle mayo
• Ketchup
• Mustard

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently but thoroughly to incorporate the seasonings without overworking the meat to maintain juiciness.
2. Cook the Burger Meat: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Divide the beef into smaller portions and smash them flat directly onto the hot surface to create thin patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay one flour tortilla flat and evenly place the cooked smashed beef patties on one half. Top with two slices of your chosen cheese or a generous amount of shredded cheese. Add optional toppings like caramelized onions, sliced pickles, or jalapeños if desired. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
4. Cook the Quesadillas: Wipe the skillet clean, then return to medium heat. Place the assembled quesadilla on the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside has melted thoroughly. Press down gently with a spatula to help it crisp evenly.
5. Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before cutting into wedges. Serve warm with optional smash sauce, chipotle mayo, ketchup, or mustard on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Smashing the burger patties thin helps achieve a crispy edge and fast cooking.
• Feel free to substitute cheese with your favorite melting variety.
• Add toppings after cooking the beef for best texture.
• Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet for easier cooking and crisping.
• Customize sauces to add extra flavor layers.

Keywords: smashburger quesadillas, crispy quesadillas, cheesy quesadilla recipe, ground beef quesadilla, quick dinner, easy skillet recipe