There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of a savory burger and the crispy comfort of a quesadilla. Smashburger quesadillas deliver that flavor-packed, meaty goodness in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering, this dish allows you to revel in all the deliciousness of burgers without all the fuss of grilling. Perfect for families, game day, or when you just want a fun twist on traditional fare, these quesadillas stand out because they merge two beloved foods into one easy-to-make recipe. Trust me, once you try this delightful creation, it will be on your regular dinner rotation.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes smashburger quesadillas a hit in my kitchen? First off, they are ridiculously easy to whip up, making them ideal for those harried weeknights when you need to put dinner on the table fast. Budget-friendly? Absolutely! With just a few pantry staples and some ground beef, you’re set. They’re also a big crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike will love customizing their own quesadillas with fun toppings like pickles and burger sauce. Plus, the satisfaction of skillet-searing beef and melty cheese inside a perfectly toasted tortilla is simply unmatched.
"I made these smashburger quesadillas for my family, and they disappeared in minutes! The kids were asking for seconds, and it felt like winning the dinner game!" – Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Let me guide you through the cooking process of these tantalizing smashburger quesadillas. You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. The main steps involve preparing the beef, assembling the quesadillas, and finishing them on a hot skillet to get that perfect crispy texture.
What you’ll need
Before we dive into cooking, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (for seasoning)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- Optional: pickles, diced onions, burger sauce for serving
Feel free to switch up the cheese or toppings based on your family’s preferences!
Directions to follow

- Begin by heating a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, allowing it to get nice and hot.
- Take a small handful of ground beef and press it directly onto one half of each tortilla. Be generous with the seasoning—add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your taste.
- Once the beef is laid out, place it beef-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until browned, letting those juices seep into the tortilla.
- Flip the tortilla over, sprinkle your choice of cheese on top, then fold it in half. Grill it for another couple of minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot with your favorite burger toppings or dipping sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
Ready to serve up these delightful quesadillas? Here are some suggestions for the best way to enjoy them. You can plate the quesadillas with a side of crispy nachos or fresh guacamole for that extra pop. You could also spice things up by serving with a zesty salsa or some kimchi for an unexpected flavor blend. Optional toppings like diced onions, pickles, and a drizzle of burger sauce truly elevate the experience, so let everyone build their own masterpiece!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely, but just in case), storing them is a breeze. Place the cooled quesadillas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. If you’re keen on keeping them fresher for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will last up to two months—perfect for those busy days!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra pieces of advice to make your smashburger quesadillas even better:
- Use a non-stick skillet if you have one, as it helps prevent sticking and allows for a more even golden crust.
- Don’t rush—allow the beef to brown properly for that deep flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese beyond cheddar and American; pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- For an added layer of flavor, consider using a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce in the beef mix.
Creative twists
The beauty of smashburger quesadillas is in their versatility. Want to put a spin on the classic? Try adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for a gourmet touch. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative. You can also play around with different toppings by incorporating fresh spinach or jalapeños for that extra zing. The sky’s the limit with these delicious quesadillas!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare smashburger quesadillas?
- The prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking them only takes an additional 10-15 minutes.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or plant-based meats work perfectly, just adjust the seasoning as needed.
How do I store leftovers safely?
- Allow the quesadillas to cool before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with smashburger quesadillas?
- Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, salads, and sides like nachos or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Diving into the world of smashburger quesadillas opens up a realm of hearty flavors and fun cooking possibilities that everyone will adore. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Smashburger Quesadillas
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious smashburger quesadillas combine savory burgers and crispy quesadillas for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- Optional: pickles, diced onions, burger sauce for serving
Instructions
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Press a small handful of ground beef onto one half of each tortilla, seasoning generously.
- Cook the tortilla beef-side down in the skillet for about 2–3 minutes until browned.
- Flip the tortilla, sprinkle cheese on top, fold in half, and grill for another couple of minutes until cheese melts and tortilla is golden brown.
- Slice into wedges and serve with toppings of choice.
Notes
Feel free to switch up the cheese or toppings based on your family’s preferences. For extra flavor, consider using smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce in the beef mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican