Introduction
Who doesn’t love a good burger or a cheesy quesadilla? Now imagine combining both into one mouthwatering dish—that’s exactly what a Smashburger Quesadilla is all about. It’s quick, flavorful, and doesn’t need any fancy ingredients. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a fun weekend snack.
What makes it special? Instead of cooking a big burger patty, we smash small balls of ground beef directly onto a hot pan. This gives the meat crispy edges and juicy flavor. Then, we load it up with melted cheese, onions, and all your favorite toppings, sandwiching everything between crispy tortillas. If you’re craving something cheesy, savory, and a little indulgent, this recipe is going to hit the spot!
Ingredients – Smashburger Quesadillas
Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 4 servings of Smashburger Quesadillas:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
- 8 flour tortillas (medium size)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese you like)
- 1 small onion (diced or thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking tortillas)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Pickles (optional, but amazing for flavor)
- Burger sauce or mayo + ketchup mix
Step by Step Process – Smashburger Quesadillas
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Take your ground beef and form it into 8 small balls (about 2 ounces each). Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These will be smashed onto the pan later.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or griddle on medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get those crispy edges on the beef.
Step 3: Smash the Burgers
Put two beef balls on the skillet. Using a spatula (and maybe a piece of parchment paper to stop sticking), smash them flat until thin. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Remove and repeat with the rest.
Step 4: Cook the Onions
In the same pan, add a little butter and toss in the onions. Cook until they’re soft and golden. This adds sweetness that balances the beef.
Step 5: Build the Quesadillas
Lay a tortilla flat. Sprinkle cheese over one half, add a smashburger patty, some onions, and a few pickles if you like. Add another layer of cheese on top, then fold the tortilla in half. Repeat with all tortillas.
Step 6: Toast the Quesadillas
Melt butter in the skillet and cook each quesadilla for about 2–3 minutes per side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Cut each quesadilla into halves or quarters. Serve with burger sauce, ketchup, or even ranch on the side. And that’s it—your crispy, cheesy Smashburger Quesadillas are ready to eat!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Sugars | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works too. Just make sure to season well since they’re leaner meats.
Q2: What cheese melts best in quesadillas?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses works perfectly.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the beef and onions in advance, but it’s best to cook the quesadillas fresh so the tortillas stay crispy.
Q4: Do I need a special pan for smashing burgers?
Nope. A regular skillet works fine—just use a flat spatula to press down.
Q5: Can I make it healthier?
Yes! Use whole wheat tortillas, lean beef or turkey, and go light on the cheese and butter.
Final Thoughts
The Smashburger Quesadilla is the best of both worlds—it’s got the juicy flavor of a burger and the cheesy crunch of a quesadilla. It’s quick, fun to make, and doesn’t require fancy cooking skills.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a winner every single time. The crispy beef, gooey cheese, and golden tortillas make it irresistible. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings to make it your own.
So next time you’re stuck between craving a burger or a quesadilla, don’t choose—make a Smashburger Quesadilla and enjoy both in one bite!
