Name: Smashburger Quesadillas: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; Salt (Essential seasoning.); Pepper (Essential seasoning.); Garlic Powder (Essential seasoning; consider smoked paprika and onion powder for bolder taste.); 4 large Flour Tortillas (Burrito-size works best; almond flour tortillas are a great gluten-free alternative.); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (A blend of sharp cheddar and American cheese; use plant-based cheese for dairy-free version.)

As the sizzle of a skillet fills my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the ease of transforming a simple weeknight into something extraordinary. Enter the Smashburger Quesadillas—an irresistible blend of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and that satisfying crisp from a golden tortilla. This recipe is a true game-changer; in just 20 minutes, you’ll have a comforting meal that can be customized to suit any palate, whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends on game day. Plus, they offer a fun twist on the typical burger night, making every bite a delightful surprise. Are you ready to dive into a cheesy, flavorful adventure, or will you take the plunge with one of the tasty variations?

Why Are Smashburger Quesadillas a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe packs a flavorful punch in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Fully Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients with fun variations, like the Spicy Fiesta version with chorizo or the Breakfast Smash loaded with eggs!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These quesadillas are universally loved by both adults and kids, ensuring happy faces all around. Pair them with dipping sauces for an instant hit!

Satisfying Comfort Food: With a crispy tortilla and a gooey cheese center, each bite delivers the cozy feeling we all crave.

When you’re ready to elevate your dinner game, don’t forget to check out our fun Smashburger Quesadillas New for more tips!

Smashburger Quesadillas Ingredients

For the Quesadillas

Ground Beef (1 lb) – The main protein, best with an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy flavor; for a vegetarian option, substitute with Impossible Meat or seasoned black beans.
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder – Essential seasonings to elevate the beef’s flavor; consider smoked paprika and onion powder for a bolder taste.
Flour Tortillas (4 large) – The crispy base for these quesadillas; burrito-size works best for ample filling. For gluten-free, almond flour tortillas are a great alternative.
Shredded Cheese (1 cup) – A blend of sharp cheddar and American cheese for the perfect melt; try plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.

Enjoy making these delightful Smashburger Quesadillas, a fun twist on traditional comfort food!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashburger Quesadillas

Step 1: Heat Your Skillet
Begin by warming a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s just right when droplets of water sizzle and evaporate instantly upon contact, creating that perfect cooking environment. This crucial first step will ensure your Smashburger Quesadillas attain that irresistible crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef
While the skillet heats, take your ground beef and season it generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor. Divide the beef into quarters, then press a quarter onto one half of each flour tortilla, making sure it stays compact for easy grilling.

Step 3: Cook the Beef
Place the tortilla with the beef side down on the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Watch as the edges turn crispy and the beef browns beautifully; this is key for achieving that mouthwatering Smashburger essence.

Step 4: Flip and Add Cheese
Carefully flip the tortilla to cook the other side while immediately sprinkling a mix of shredded cheddar and American cheese over the beef. The cheese will begin to melt, enveloping the beef in gooey goodness. Fold the tortilla in half, sealing in all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection
After folding the Smashburger Quesadilla, continue grilling it for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye out for that golden-brown color and a satisfyingly crispy texture that indicates it’s ready to be devoured.

Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once both sides have reached that gorgeous golden hue, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice into triangles without spilling the gooey filling.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings
Finally, cut your Smashburger Quesadillas into wedges and serve them up with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces. Consider mini bowls of pickles, onions, or squeeze some burger sauce to bring out even more flavor. Enjoy the delightful crunch and cheesy goodness in every bite!

Smashburger Quesadillas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor these Smashburger Quesadillas to match your mood and taste preferences, creating a dish that’s uniquely yours!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, seasoned black beans, or even Impossible Meat for a hearty texture. Your quesadillas will still be satisfyingly delicious!
Dairy-Free Option: Replace regular cheese with your favorite plant-based cheese. The gooey texture will still deliver that comfort you crave without dairy!
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce before folding. For those who love heat, this will ignite your taste buds!
Italian Twist: Use Italian sausage and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, pairing the quesadilla with marinara sauce for a fun dipping experience.
Breakfast Version: Incorporate scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a morning twist. Imagine enjoying this delicious combination with a side of salsa!
Sweet & Savory: Add thin slices of pineapple along with teriyaki sauce for a tropical-inspired quesadilla. It’s a unique blend of flavors that’s sure to surprise!
Crunchy Add-Ins: Mix in some sautéed bell peppers and onions for a crunchy, flavor-packed bite that elevates your quesadilla experience even more.
Fresh Toppings: Serve with a variety of toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or a drizzle of ranch for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t forget to try these alongside our delightful Smashburger Quesadillas New for even more inspiration!

Expert Tips for Smashburger Quesadillas

Use Cast Iron: A cast iron skillet will help achieve that high level of crispiness that you crave. Non-stick pans won’t give you the same browning.
Prevent Rips: If your tortilla rips when flipping, ensure it has browned sufficiently and use two spatulas for added support during the flip.
Double the Recipe: Quesadillas go fast! Always make extra because everyone will want seconds—even thirds!
Freshly Shredded Cheese: Opt for shredding your own cheese instead of pre-shredded. This prevents clumping and gives you that creamy melt you desire.
Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to customize your Smashburger Quesadillas with your favorite proteins or veggies. It’s all about crafting that perfect bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Smashburger Quesadillas are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the ground beef mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply season and cook the beef, then cool it completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. You can also assemble the quesadillas without cooking, layering the tortillas, beef, and cheese, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, just heat your skillet and grill them as instructed for a delicious meal that tastes freshly made, bringing comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Smashburger Quesadillas?

Elevate your Smashburger Quesadillas experience with delightful sides that add flavor, crunch, and a touch of heartiness.

Creamy Guacamole: This rich, buttery dip brings a refreshing contrast to the crispy quesadillas, enhancing every bite.
Zesty Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw provide a perfect balance, adding a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors.
Spicy Salsa: Whether homemade or store-bought, a vibrant salsa adds a kick of spice and brightness to your meal.
Crunchy Nachos: Serve with loaded nachos to create a fun and shareable platter, perfect for game days or family gatherings.
Chili Cheese Fries: The indulgence of chili cheese fries adds an extra layer of comfort and fun, keeping everyone coming back for more.
Mini Pickle Bar: Setting out a variety of pickles allows guests to customize their plate, bringing in a tangy crunch that’s simply irresistible.
Light Caesar Salad: A simple Caesar salad adds a fresh and crisp element, balancing the richness of the quesadillas wonderfully.
Fizzy Lemonade: Pair with a refreshing glass of lemonade for a sweet, tangy drink that lifts the flavors of this scrumptious meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off with warm cookies for a comforting dessert that complements the savory richness of the quesadillas.

How to Store and Freeze Smashburger Quesadillas

Fridge: Store cooked Smashburger Quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezer: Freeze quesadillas wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 1 month. Avoid adding fresh toppings before freezing to ensure best quality.
Reheating: For optimal crispiness, reheat frozen quesadillas directly from the freezer in an air fryer or skillet until heated through and crispy again.
Make-Ahead: Prepare quesadillas in advance and refrigerate, then simply reheat as needed for a quick meal—perfect for busy weeknights!

Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef for Smashburger Quesadillas?
Absolutely! For the juiciest Smashburger Quesadillas, opt for ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. This balance ensures rich flavor and moisture. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, consider using Impossible Meat or seasoned black beans as substitutes for a delicious twist.

How should I store leftover Smashburger Quesadillas?
Very! To keep your Smashburger Quesadillas fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore their delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Smashburger Quesadillas for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Smashburger Quesadillas, wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer in an air fryer or skillet until hot and crispy, ensuring they’re delightful upon serving.

What should I do if my tortillas rip while cooking?
If your tortilla rips during flipping, it’s often because it wasn’t crispy enough. Make sure to let it cook until the edges start to brown before attempting to flip. Using two spatulas can also help support the tortilla better. Cooking the quesadilla in a cast iron skillet usually helps achieve that perfect texture!

Are Smashburger Quesadillas gluten-free?
Great question! To make Smashburger Quesadillas gluten-free, simply substitute the flour tortillas with gluten-free options, like almond flour or gluten-free tortillas. This allows everyone to enjoy this delicious comfort food without compromising dietary needs.

Can I add toppings before freezing?
It’s best to avoid adding fresh toppings before freezing your Smashburger Quesadillas. This will help maintain their quality and texture. Once you reheat them, you can then add your favorite toppings, creating that perfect burst of flavor just when you’re ready to indulge!