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Smashburger Quesadillas

These Smashburger Quesadillas are the perfect mash-up of a juicy smashburger and a cheesy quesadilla. With golden tortillas, seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is a weeknight dinner dream come true. Quick to make, kid-approved, and loaded with bold flavors—you’ll want to add this one to your regular dinner rotation!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 quesadillas
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend preferred for juiciness
  • 8 medium flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil for frying
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
  • Pickles classic smashburger flair
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Bacon crumbles
  • Burger sauce or mayo-ketchup mix

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or heavy nonstick pan
  • Sturdy spatula for smashing
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Heat a cast iron skillet or large nonstick pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Divide the ground beef into 8 small balls.
  3. Place 2 beef balls in the skillet and smash flat with a spatula until thin.
  4. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy edges form.
  5. Remove beef patties and repeat with remaining portions.
  6. Wipe skillet lightly and add butter or oil.
  7. Lay one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with cheese, top with a beef patty, onions, and any add-ins.
  8. Place another tortilla on top, press gently, and cook until the bottom is golden.
  9. Flip carefully and cook the second side until crispy and cheese is fully melted.
  10. Slice into wedges and serve immediately with dipping sauces.

Notes

Smashburger Quesadillas -  Helpful Tips

✅ Cooking Tips & Techniques
  • Use a cast-iron skillet or griddle to get that crispy smashburger crust on the beef.
  • Press the beef thin when it first hits the hot pan—this locks in flavor and texture.
  • Assemble quesadillas with a layer of cheese on each side of the tortilla so everything sticks together.
  • Toast tortillas in butter for extra crispiness and golden color.
  • Let the quesadilla rest a minute before slicing to prevent cheese from oozing out.
✅ Serving Suggestions
  • Dip in burger sauce, chipotle mayo, ranch, or ketchup-mustard mix.
  • Top with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for the full burger vibe.
  • Pair with fries, onion rings, or a crisp salad.
✅ Make-Ahead & Storage
  • Cook the beef and store separately in the fridge (up to 4 days).
  • Assemble quesadillas fresh for best crispiness.
  • Leftover quesadillas? Reheat in a skillet or air fryer—avoid the microwave so they don’t get soggy.
✅ Fun Variations
  • Bacon Smashburger Quesadilla: Add crispy bacon inside.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix jalapeños or pepper jack cheese into the filling.
  • Big Mac Style: Add special sauce, shredded lettuce, onions, and pickles.
  • BBQ Twist: Swap burger sauce for BBQ sauce and add caramelized onions.
  • Cheesesteak Vibe: Add sautéed peppers, onions, and provolone.