Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe
Introduction
Smashburger quesadillas are a fun and flavorful twist on classic quesadillas, packed with juicy seasoned beef and melted cheese. They combine the best elements of a burger and a quesadilla for an easy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Press a small handful of ground beef directly onto one half of each tortilla. Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 3: Cook the beef side down for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Step 4: Flip the tortilla, sprinkle the cooked beef side with cheese, fold the tortilla in half, and continue grilling both sides until crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Step 5: Slice the quesadillas and serve with your favorite burger toppings like pickles, diced onions, or burger sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use a cast iron skillet for even browning and extra crispiness.
- Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavor.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños inside for a spicy kick.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Storage
Store leftover smashburger quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, or use a microwave and then crisp them up in a hot pan to maintain texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas without cooking and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. This makes them easy to prepare quickly when ready to eat.
What can I use instead of burger sauce?
If you don’t have burger sauce, try using ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, or a simple mix of mayo and your favorite hot sauce for a flavorful alternative.
PrintSmashburger Quesadillas Recipe
Smashburger Quesadillas combine the savory flavors of juicy, seasoned ground beef with melted cheddar cheese inside crispy, golden flour tortillas. This quick and easy skillet recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a smashburger in a fun, handheld quesadilla form that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 quesadillas (serves 4) 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, to season
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
Optional Toppings
- Pickles, sliced or chopped
- Diced onions
- Burger sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat to ensure a hot cooking surface for frying the quesadillas.
- Prepare the beef on tortillas: Take a small handful of the ground beef and press it directly onto one half of each flour tortilla. Season the beef generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the beef side down: Place the skillet over heat and put the beef-topped tortillas beef-side down first. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the beef to brown and develop a flavorful crust.
- Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip the tortilla, so the beef side is up. Immediately sprinkle shredded cheese over the cooked beef half, then fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
- Grill until crispy and melty: Continue to cook the folded quesadilla for a few more minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
- Slice and serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve hot. Optionally garnish with pickles, diced onions, and your favorite burger sauce for dipping or spreading.
Notes
- Use a spatula to press the beef gently onto the tortilla to ensure it adheres well during cooking.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences; adding a pinch of smoked paprika can add extra flavor.
- For a crispier quesadilla, cook on a lightly buttered skillet or use a non-stick griddle.
- Feel free to swap cheddar for American cheese or a blend for creamier melt.
- Serve immediately for best texture; quesadillas lose crispiness upon standing.
Keywords: smashburger quesadillas, ground beef quesadilla, cheesy beef quesadilla, quick skillet quesadilla, easy dinner, American comfort food

