Smashburger Quesadillas

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Think of your favorite fast food burger smashed into a crispy quesadilla. That’s what Smashburger Quesadillas are all about. These cheesy, beefy, sauce-dripping quesadillas bring together the best of both worlds: juicy seasoned beef and golden tortilla crunch. It’s the ultimate upgrade to your typical taco night and way easier than firing up the grill.

This recipe is made for weeknight wins. You only need one skillet, a handful of basic ingredients, and less than 30 minutes. The smashed burger patties cook quickly, the tortillas crisp up like a dream, and the cheese turns into a molten layer that glues it all together. Wrap it, slice it, serve it – and just wait for the compliments to roll in.

Why You’ll Love This Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe

Smashburger Quesadillas are one of those meals that hit every craving at once. The crispy tortilla, juicy beef, melty cheese, and tangy sauce make every bite absolutely craveable. It’s easy enough for a casual dinner and fun enough for game day or a midnight snack. Plus, it’s customizable – add pickles, onions, or jalapeños to make it your own.

Can I Use Pre-Made Burger Patties for This?

You can, but the magic of this recipe comes from smashing fresh ground beef directly into the pan. It creates that iconic crispy edge and lets the seasonings melt right into the meat. Pre-made patties can work in a pinch, but freshly smashed beef will always give you better texture and flavor.

Ingredients for the Smashburger Quesadillas

To make these crispy, cheesy quesadillas, all you need are a few pantry staples and a hot skillet. The ingredients are flexible, so feel free to swap or add based on your taste.

• Ground beef: The heart of the smashburger flavor. Use 80/20 beef for juicy and crispy results.
• Salt & pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the beefy goodness.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that classic burger flavor.
• Flour tortillas: Medium or large size works best to hold all the fillings.
• Burger sauce or mayo-ketchup mix: Adds tang and creaminess to tie it all together.
• Pickles (optional): For that signature tang.
• Diced onions (optional): Add a crunchy bite and savory note.

How To Make the Smashburger Quesadillas

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Divide the ground beef into small balls, about 2 ounces each. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Smash and Cook

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place a beef ball in the pan and smash it flat using a spatula. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes without touching it. Flip and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Quesadilla

Remove the beef and wipe the pan clean. Add a tortilla to the skillet, sprinkle cheese on half, add smashed beef, and drizzle with burger sauce. Top with pickles and onions if using. Fold the tortilla over.

Step 4: Crisp and Melt

Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes per side, until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Step 5: Serve

Slice into wedges and serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Serving and Storing Smashburger Quesadillas

These quesadillas are best served right off the skillet when they’re hot and melty. But if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, toss them in a dry skillet over medium heat until crisped up again.

This recipe makes enough to feed 4 hungry people or 6 as a snack or appetizer portion. If you’re planning for a crowd, double the recipe and keep them warm in a low oven until serving time.

What to Serve With Smashburger Quesadillas?

Classic Fries

You can never go wrong with a side of crispy fries. Season them with garlic salt or Cajun spice for extra flavor.

Sweet Potato Wedges

A slightly sweet and savory option that balances out the richness of the quesadillas.

Creamy Coleslaw

A crunchy, refreshing side that cuts through the heaviness and adds texture.

Garlic Pickle Spears

Amp up the pickle tang with some cold, crisp spears.

Jalapeño Poppers

For heat lovers, these are the perfect spicy appetizer to serve alongside.

Chipotle Aioli Dip

Great for dunking quesadilla wedges and adding an extra kick.

Grilled Corn Salad

A fresh, bright contrast with sweet corn, lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing

For a creamy, cool side to dip or drizzle.

Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If these Smashburger Quesadillas were a hit, you might love these other comforting ground beef recipes from Janet Dishes:

• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for cozy skillet vibes.
• Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms if you’re craving something hearty.
• Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt for those who love beef and cheese as much as crunch.
• No Peek Chicken Casserole when you want effortless oven magic.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you love spice and comfort in one dish.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make it again and again.

Let me know how your Smashburger Quesadillas turned out! Did you go classic or pile on extras like jalapeños and bacon? I’m always excited to see how others make it their own.

Explore more tasty, quick-fix comfort meals and snacks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest. You’ll find dozens of mouthwatering dishes to brighten your recipe routine.

Conclusion

Smashburger Quesadillas are what happens when you mash together your favorite cheeseburger and crispy quesadilla into one crowd-pleasing bite. Simple, quick, and full of flavor, this recipe is made to be a go-to weeknight staple or a party hit. One bite and you’ll see why these deserve a regular spot in your meal rotation.

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