Smashburger Quesadillas are a fun twist on two favorites—juicy, smashed burgers and crispy quesadillas. These little handheld treats combine the best of both worlds: melty cheese, seasoned burger patties, and a crunchy tortilla all wrapped up in one delicious bite.
I love making Smashburger Quesadillas when I want something quick but still packed with flavor. The secret is smashing the burger down flat so it cooks fast and gets those tasty crispy edges that everyone loves. I usually add a little extra cheese and maybe some sautéed onions for that perfect melty middle.
These are great for an easy lunch or a casual dinner when you want something satisfying but not fussy. I like serving them with a side of salsa or sour cream to dip, and they always disappear fast when I bring them out. Plus, they’re a great way to mix things up if you’re bored with regular burgers or quesadillas!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer an 80/20 blend because it keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. If you want leaner, try 90/10, but expect less juiciness. For a twist, ground turkey works too, just add a bit more seasoning.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its sharp flavor and meltiness. Mixing in Monterey Jack gives a nice creamy balance. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas cook up crispy and fold easily. Corn tortillas can be used but they’re more brittle, so handle gently when folding.
Green Bell Peppers: Optional but I like the mild crunch they add. You can swap them with sautéed onions or skip veggies if you’re short on time.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy, Melty Quesadilla?
Balancing a crispy tortilla with melted cheese inside takes some care. Here’s what I do:
- Cook the tortilla on medium heat—not too high—to avoid burning before the cheese melts.
- Press the quesadilla gently with a spatula while cooking to create even contact and help the cheese melt.
- Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown for the best crunch.
- Let the quesadilla rest a minute after cooking to let the cheese set slightly. This helps with slicing clean wedges!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet – perfect for even cooking and easy flipping without sticking.
- Spatula – helps you press down the burger and flip the quesadilla smoothly.
- Mixing bowl – to season and mix your ground beef easily without mess.
- Cheese grater – if you buy block cheese, grating it melts better than pre-shredded.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option that still tastes great.
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture inside your quesadilla.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a little spicy kick instead of cheddar.
- Mix in some cooked bacon pieces for an extra savory, smoky boost.
Smashburger Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Quesadillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup diced green bell peppers (optional)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Sour cream
- Salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook. Cooking the smashed beef and melting the quesadillas is quick, so you’ll have a tasty meal ready in under 20 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Beef:
In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Add the ground beef and press it down with a spatula to form a thin layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes without touching it to get a nice crust. Flip and press again, cooking another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and caramelized. Take the cooked beef off the skillet and set aside.
2. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Wipe your skillet clean and heat it over medium. Place one tortilla in the pan, then sprinkle shredded cheese on half of it. Add half of the cooked beef and the diced bell peppers if you want. Top with more cheese for extra gooeyness. Fold the tortilla over to make a half-moon shape.
3. Cook the Quesadilla:
Cook the folded quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with the spatula so the cheese melts and the tortilla becomes golden and crispy. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute before slicing it into wedges.
4. Repeat and Serve:
Repeat the assembly and cooking process with the remaining ingredients. Serve your quesadillas warm with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the ground beef completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make Smashburger Quesadillas Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or a plant-based meat substitute. Season well and cook similarly for a tasty vegetarian option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the tortilla crispy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Quesadillas?
Yes! Feel free to add sautéed onions, jalapeños, or corn for extra flavor. Just cook the veggies beforehand so they’re tender inside the quesadilla.
