Smashburger Quesadillas are a tasty twist on two classic dishes: burgers and quesadillas. This recipe combines the juicy goodness of a smash burger with the cheesy delight of a quesadilla. When you take a bite, you get rich flavors, crunchy edges, and melty cheese. They are easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, or even a fun weekend treat. This dish is sure to please anyone who loves burgers or cheesy goodness. Let’s dive into why you will love making Smashburger Quesadillas in your kitchen.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Smashburger Quesadillas. First, they are quick and simple to make. You only need a few ingredients, which makes it easy on your wallet and your schedule. Second, they are fun to customize. You can add your favorite toppings or sauces, making each quesadilla unique. The crispy tortillas paired with seasoned beef and melted cheese create a delicious combination that you’ll crave again and again. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them a great choice for gatherings or game day.
HOW TO MAKE Smashburger Quesadillas
Making Smashburger Quesadillas is straightforward. You will need some basic ingredients and a few easy steps. Below, we will go through everything you need to know for making this delicious dish.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Smashburger Quesadillas, you will need:
- A large skillet or griddle
- A spatula
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A serving plate
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder (to season)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- Optional: pickles, diced onions, burger sauce for serving
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat the Skillet: First, put your skillet or griddle on the stove. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Take each tortilla and lay them flat on a clean surface.
- Add Ground Beef: Take a small handful of ground beef and press it directly onto one half of each tortilla.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle each half with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook the Beef: Place the tortillas in the hot skillet with the beef side down. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the beef is browned.
- Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip each tortilla over. Sprinkle cheese on the beef.
- Fold the Tortillas: Fold each tortilla in half to cover the beef and cheese.
- Grill Until Crispy: Grill both sides of the folded quesadilla for a few minutes until they are crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Slice and Serve: Remove from the skillet. Slice each quesadilla into wedges. Serve hot with your favorite burger toppings or dipping sauces.
HOW TO SERVE Smashburger Quesadillas
Smashburger Quesadillas are amazing on their own, but you can elevate your meal with some dips and toppings. Consider serving them with:
- Burger sauce for drizzling
- Sliced pickles for a crunchy bite
- Diced onions for extra flavor
- Ketchup or mustard on the side
These additions will enhance the burger experience you get from the quesadillas.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Smashburger Quesadillas
If you have leftovers or want to make quesadillas ahead of time, storage is simple.
- In the Fridge: Put any uneaten quesadillas in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- In the Freezer: To freeze, separate each quesadilla with parchment paper. Place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
While Smashburger Quesadillas taste great on their own, you can serve them with a side of:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- A fresh salad for a lighter meal
- A bowl of chili for dipping
These sides will complement the flavors in the quesadillas.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to experiment with the basic recipe. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for some heat.
- Veggie Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or grilled vegetables for a veggie-friendly meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- BBQ Twist: Add barbecue sauce to the beef for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use other meats?
Yes! You can try chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat. - Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them for later. - What dipping sauce goes well with them?
Burger sauce, ranch dressing, or guacamole makes great choices. - How can I make them healthier?
Use whole-wheat tortillas and reduce the amount of cheese.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Smashburger Quesadillas
To save time, you can prepare some elements ahead of time:
- Cook the Ground Beef: You can season and cook the beef a day early. Just keep it in the fridge until you are ready to make the quesadillas.
- Chop Your Toppings: Dice onions, pickles, or any other toppings the night before. This way, everything is ready when it’s time to cook.
- Assemble in Advance: If you want, you can assemble the quesadillas without cooking them, store them in the fridge, and grill them when you are ready to eat.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy delicious Smashburger Quesadillas quickly and easily. Whether you are making them for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, they are sure to be a hit!
Smashburger Quesadillas
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface.
- Press a small handful of ground beef directly onto one half of each tortilla.
- Sprinkle each half with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the tortillas in the hot skillet with the beef side down. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the beef is browned.
- Carefully flip each tortilla over and sprinkle cheese on the beef.
- Fold each tortilla in half to cover the beef and cheese.
- Grill both sides of the folded quesadilla for a few minutes until they are crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from skillet and slice each quesadilla into wedges. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.