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Smashburger Quesadillas

Smash burger Quesadillas Recipe

Smash burger Quesadillas are the perfect hybrid of a burger and a quesadilla, combining juicy, seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and a crispy tortilla. These quesadillas are sure to satisfy your cravings, whether you're looking for a quick dinner or something fun to serve at a gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Quesadillas:
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 fat ratio
  • 4 large flour tortillas burrito-size
  • 1 cup shredded cheese half cheddar, half American
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional for extra flavor
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder optional
  • Salt pepper, and garlic powder (to taste)
  • For Toppings:
  • Pickles sliced
  • Diced onions
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Mustard or ketchup
  • Burger sauce optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef:
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
  3. Take about 1/4 of the ground beef and press it directly onto one side of each tortilla, making sure it’s thin and spread evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and optional smoked paprika and onion powder for an extra flavor boost.
  5. Cook the Beef:
  6. Place the tortilla, beef-side down, into the preheated skillet. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to crisp up.
  7. Carefully flip the tortilla using a wide spatula (or two spatulas for extra support).
  8. Add Cheese and Fold:
  9. As soon as you flip the tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.
  10. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Serve:
  12. Remove from the skillet and let the quesadilla rest for 1-2 minutes. This helps the cheese set.
  13. Slice into triangles and serve with your choice of toppings like pickles, onions, lettuce, and burger sauce.

Notes

  • Tortillas: If you're gluten-free, try almond flour tortillas (such as the Siete brand), but be extra careful when flipping as they can be delicate.
  • Cheese Swap: For a different twist, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.
  • Make-Ahead: You can cook and store the quesadillas in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore the crisp.
  • Veggie Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for black beans or a plant-based meat alternative like Impossible Meat.