Why You’ll Love Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe
These quesadillas combine juicy, crispy beef with gooey melted cheese and a golden, crunchy tortilla. They’re fast to make, customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces, and a crowd‑pleasing option for family meals or game‑day snacks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
salt
black pepper
onion powder
large flour tortillas
cheese (American, cheddar, or pepper jack)
optional toppings: caramelized onions, pickles, jalapeños
optional sauces: smash sauce, chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard
Directions
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Roll the ground beef into 4 equal balls and season with salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
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Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium‑high heat until hot.
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Place a flour tortilla on the skillet, set a beef ball in the center, and smash it flat to about ⅛‑¼‑inch thick using a sturdy spatula or burger press.
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Cook for 1–2 minutes until edges are crispy, then flip.
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Add cheese slices on top of the hot beef, add any desired toppings, and fold the tortilla in half to form a quesadilla.
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Lower heat to medium and cook for another 1–2 minutes per side until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted.
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Slice into wedges and serve hot with your favorite sauces.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes about 4 quesadillas (serves 4)
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: ~15 minutes
Total time: ~20 minutes
Variations
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for heat.
• Bacon Cheeseburger: Include crispy bacon strips inside before folding.
• Veggie Loaded: Sauté mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers for a colorful twist.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar or Colby jack for American for different melt and flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
• Storage: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on a dry skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to re‑crisp the tortilla.
• Freezing: Wrap individually in foil or parchment and freeze for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
FAQs
What kind of beef is best for smashburger quesadillas?
Use ground beef with an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor, though other blends work too.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Prep the beef balls and toppings ahead, but cook and assemble just before serving for best texture.
What’s the best cheese to use?
American cheese melts easily, but cheddar, Colby jack, or pepper jack are also great.
Do I need oil to cook the beef?
With 80/20 beef, the fat renders enough for searing; extra oil isn’t necessary.
How do I keep the tortilla from getting soggy?
Cook the quesadilla on medium heat and press gently to crisp both sides.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas work best; corn tortillas can be more brittle and may crack.
Are these spicy?
They’re mild by default, but you can add jalapeños or spicy sauce to increase heat.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but leaner meats may dry out; add a bit of oil for moisture if needed.
How do I reheat without making them soggy?
Use a skillet or air fryer to keep the tortilla crispy.
What sauces pair well with smashburger quesadillas?
Smash sauce, chipotle mayo, ketchup, or mustard all complement the flavors.
Conclusion
Smashburger Quesadillas are a delicious fusion of classic burger flavors and cheesy quesadilla comfort. With simple ingredients and a quick cook time, they’re perfect for busy evenings or casual meals with friends and family. Customize with toppings and sauces to suit your taste, and enjoy a crispy, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
