Sometimes you crave a juicy burger but also want the gooey comfort of a quesadilla. That is where Smashburger Quesadillas come in. They are cheesy, flavorful, and quick to whip up, making them a perfect weeknight meal that feels like a fun twist on two classics.
Why You’ll Love This Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe
These quesadillas are more than just a mash-up of two favorites. They are satisfying, simple, and guaranteed to become a repeat recipe.
- ⏱️ Quick and ready in under 30 minutes
- 🧀 Loaded with melted cheese and juicy beef
- 👩👩👧👦 Family friendly and customizable for picky eaters
- 🌮 Perfect fusion of taco-night fun and burger cravings
- 🔄 Versatile with endless filling and topping options
Smashburger Quesadillas Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best. Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Flour Tortillas: Medium to large tortillas for folding. Use whole wheat or gluten free tortillas if needed.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or American cheese. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or dairy free cheese alternatives also work.
- Pickles: Adds tang and crunch. Can be swapped with jalapeños or skipped.
- Onion: Thinly sliced for flavor. Caramelized onions or onion powder can be used instead.
- Burger Sauce: Mix mayo, ketchup, and mustard for a quick sauce. Add hot sauce or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- Butter or Oil: For toasting the tortillas.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Smashburger Quesadillas
- Heat a skillet over medium high heat.
- Form small balls of ground beef and place them on the hot skillet.
- Smash each ball flat with a spatula until thin and let sear for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook another 1 to 2 minutes until browned.
- Remove cooked patties and set aside.
- Wipe skillet clean and reduce heat to medium.
- Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
- Add a smashed patty, pickles, onions, and a drizzle of burger sauce.
- Top with more cheese and another tortilla or fold in half.
- Cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Slice and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Smash the beef thin for crispy edges and juicy centers.
- Use shredded cheese so it melts quickly and evenly.
- Do not overfill the tortillas or they will tear.
- Let the quesadillas cool for 1 minute before cutting to prevent cheese from spilling out.
Variations of Smashburger Quesadillas
- Bacon Cheeseburger: Add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese and jalapeños.
- Vegetarian: Use plant based beef and vegan cheese.
- Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns for a morning version.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Smashburger Quesadillas
- Crispy French fries or tater tots
- A fresh side salad or coleslaw
- Dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or extra burger sauce
- Refreshing drinks like iced tea, soda, or lemonade
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet until crispy or bake at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it softens the tortillas.
Memories Made Around the Table
The first time I made Smashburger Quesadillas, my family could not stop smiling. It felt like a fun experiment, and now it has become one of those recipes we look forward to on busy nights. Sharing them at the table always sparks laughter and second helpings.
FAQs
Can I make Smashburger Quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef patties in advance and assemble the quesadillas when ready to eat. Store patties in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What is the best cheese for Smashburger Quesadillas?
American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar or Monterey Jack are excellent options for flavor and texture.
Can I make Smashburger Quesadillas gluten free?
Absolutely. Use gluten free tortillas and ensure your burger sauce and pickles are gluten free.
Final Thoughts & Printable Recipe
Smashburger Quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food mash-up, bringing the best of burgers and quesadillas into one delicious bite. Quick, cheesy, and family-approved, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Try it soon and do not forget to share or pin it for later!
Smashburger Quesadillas
Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
- 8 flour tortillas medium to large
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese or cheese of choice
- ½ cup sliced pickles or jalapeños for heat
- ½ cup thinly sliced onion raw or caramelized
- 2 tbsp butter or oil for toasting tortillas
Burger Sauce
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, place small balls of ground beef and smash flat with a spatula. Cook 2–3 minutes, then flip and cook 1–2 minutes more. Set aside.
- Mix mayo, ketchup, and mustard to make the burger sauce. Set aside.
- Wipe the skillet and reduce heat to medium. Lightly butter one side of a tortilla and place it buttered-side down in the skillet.
- Layer shredded cheese, a smashed burger patty, pickles, onions, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Top with more cheese and another tortilla, or fold in half.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Let cool for 1 minute before slicing. Serve warm.