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Smashburger Quesadillas

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Meet the ultimate marriage of two beloved classics: Smashburger Quesadillas. Think juicy, seasoned beef smashed and seared to perfection, loaded with melted cheese, and sandwiched between crisp, golden tortillas. It’s everything you crave in a burger, reborn as an ultra-satisfying quesadilla with irresistible handheld appeal.

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Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a gameday snack, or a satisfying midnight bite, these quesadillas hit all the right notes. They’re easy to whip up, endlessly customizable, and deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. A crunchy crust, gooey center, and savory burger bliss in every bite.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

For the best texture and structure, go for 8-inch flour tortillas. They’re pliable, crisp up beautifully in a skillet, and hold all the juicy filling without tearing. Corn tortillas tend to be more brittle and don’t handle the weight as well, but they can work in a pinch if lightly steamed first.

Ingredients for the Smashburger Quesadillas

Ground Beef: The star of the show. Choose 80/20 ground chuck for rich flavor and perfect caramelization.

Cheddar Cheese: A melty, bold classic that pairs beautifully with burger flavors. Shred your own for the best melt.

Monterey Jack Cheese: Smooth, creamy, and balances the sharpness of cheddar perfectly.

Pickles: Thin slices add that tangy snap and iconic burger zing. Dill chips work best.

Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas act as your crispy base and top.

Mustard & Ketchup: Mix into the meat or drizzle on before folding for that classic burger taste.

Butter or Oil: For grilling the quesadillas to golden perfection.


How To Make the Smashburger Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart. Season with salt and pepper. Add a squirt of ketchup and mustard while cooking for that signature burger depth. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to coat the surface.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas

Lay a tortilla flat. On one half, sprinkle a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Add a layer of cooked beef and a few pickle slices. Top with more cheese. Fold in half.

Step 4: Grill to Crispy Perfection

Place the folded tortilla in the hot skillet. Cook until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Press down lightly to smash the filling together and encourage the cheese to melt.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once both sides are golden and the cheese is gooey, transfer to a cutting board. Slice into wedges and serve immediately with dipping sauces like burger sauce, ranch, or extra ketchup and mustard.


How to Serve and Store Smashburger Quesadillas

Serve your quesadillas hot off the skillet for the best texture—crispy edges, melted center, and all the flavor locked in. They’re perfect as a standalone meal or shared appetizer.

To store, wrap leftovers tightly in foil or an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain the crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving if you can; it softens the crunch.

What to Serve With Smashburger Quesadillas?

Classic Fries

You can never go wrong with golden, salted fries on the side.

Loaded Beef Fries

Double up on the indulgence with these Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries.

Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

Add a veggie twist with crispy, cheesy roasted sides.

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

For a lighter yet crunchy side, air-fried wedges are a hit.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Turn it into a full meal with creamy comfort on the side like this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta.

Jalapeño Poppers

Bring on some heat and crunch.

Deep-Dish Pizza Cupcakes

A fun, cheesy sidekick with plenty of bite.

Easy Mexican Rice

Round out the meal with a hearty grain-based side.


Want More Quesadilla & Savory Ideas?

If you’re into these Smashburger Quesadillas, check out these savory picks from the kitchen:

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Smashburger Quesadillas

Smashburger Quesadillas


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  • Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 quesadillas

Description

Smashburger Quesadillas are the perfect fusion of classic American burgers and the cheesy, crispy charm of quesadillas. With a flavorful seasoned ground beef filling, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and tangy pickles, this is a comfort food winner. Ready in minutes, they’re great for a quick breakfast, easy dinner, or satisfying snack. Whether you’re after savory food ideas, weeknight dinner ideas, or an easy recipe to wow guests, this one delivers.


Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup sliced dill pickles

4 8-inch flour tortillas

1 tbsp yellow mustard

1 tbsp ketchup

1 tbsp butter or oil (for grilling)

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in mustard and ketchup. Drain excess fat.

2. Clean the skillet and return to medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil.

3. Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle cheese on one half. Add beef, pickles, and more cheese. Fold in half.

4. Place folded tortilla in skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

5. Slice into wedges and serve warm with dipping sauces.

Notes

Lightly toasting tortillas before assembling can help prevent sogginess.

For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of burger sauce or mayo inside before folding.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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