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Smashburger Quesadillas

smashburger quesadillas - featured image

Smashburger quesadillas combine the juicy, crispy goodness of a classic smashburger with the melty, cheesy comfort of a quesadilla. This easy, customizable recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred for juiciness)
  • 1 tsp burger seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder)
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 6 medium flour tortillas (68 inches, use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 4 slices American cheese (optional)
  • 23 tbsp unsalted butter or neutral oil (for crisping tortillas)
  • Pickles, sliced (optional, for garnish)
  • Ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce (for dipping or drizzling)
  • Tomatoes, sliced (optional garnish)
  • Lettuce, shredded (optional garnish)
  • Jalapeños, sliced (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep all ingredients: chop onions, pickles, and any garnishes; shred cheese if needed.
  2. In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with burger seasoning and onions if using.
  3. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of butter or oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Divide seasoned beef into 4–6 balls (about 2 oz each). Place each ball on one half of a tortilla.
  5. Lay the tortilla with beef side down in the hot skillet. Use a spatula to press and smash the beef into a thin layer, covering half the tortilla. Cook for 2–3 minutes until beef is browned and crispy at the edges.
  6. Top the cooked beef with about 1/3 cup shredded cheese and American cheese if using. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
  7. Flip the folded quesadilla and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the tortilla is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
  8. Repeat with remaining tortillas and beef. Place finished quesadillas on a wire rack or plate to keep crispy.
  9. Slice quesadillas into wedges. Garnish with pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and serve with ketchup or burger sauce for dipping.

Notes

For extra crispy quesadillas, use medium-high heat and wipe out excess grease between batches. Don’t overstuff with beef or cheese. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute tortillas and cheese as needed. Keep finished quesadillas warm in a low oven if making a big batch. Customize with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Nutrition

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