Smashburger Quesadillas
Quick and delicious quesadillas that combine the flavors of smashburgers with the convenience of tortillas, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20) works best for flavor and browning; leaner blends are fine if you drain fat
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese or a mix
Seasoning
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- to taste garlic powder
Optional Toppings
- pickles
- diced onions
- burger sauce for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high until hot; a little oil can be added if your pan is prone to sticking.
- Break the ground beef into small palm-sized pieces. Press one handful flat directly onto one half of each tortilla — aim for a thin, even patty shape.
- Season the exposed beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cooking
- Place the beef-side down on the hot surface. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a brown crust forms.
- Flip the tortilla so the meat is uppermost. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the cooked beef, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose.
- Grill the folded quesadilla on both sides until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is fully melted, about 1–2 minutes per side.
- Slice into wedges and serve immediately with pickles, diced onions, and burger sauce on the side.
Notes
For a lighter option, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles. If you like a smoky note, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.