Name: Smashburger Quesadilla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup diced pickles (optional); 1/4 cup diced onions (optional); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp mustard; Butter or oil for cooking

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A Smashburger Quesadilla is the perfect fusion of two all-time favorites: the classic cheeseburger and a crispy, cheesy quesadilla. I love how the rich, savory flavor of seasoned smashburger patties blends with melty cheese inside a golden tortilla. It’s quick to make, ridiculously satisfying, and packed with protein—ideal for a weeknight dinner, party snack, or even a next-level lunch.

Smashburger Quesadilla

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

4 large flour tortillas

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup diced pickles (optional)

¼ cup diced onions (optional)

2 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 tablespoon ketchup

1 teaspoon mustard

Butter or oil for cooking

Directions

In a small bowl, I mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to make a quick burger sauce. Then I set it aside.

I divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and roll each into a ball.

On a hot skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, I add a bit of oil.

I place a beef ball onto the skillet and smash it down using a spatula until it's very thin. While it cooks, I sprinkle it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

I cook each patty for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re crispy and cooked through. Then I remove them and repeat with the rest.

After wiping the skillet clean, I lay one tortilla on it over low-medium heat.

On one half of the tortilla, I sprinkle ¼ cup each of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

I add a cooked smashburger patty over the cheese, then top with pickles and onions if I’m using them.

I drizzle 1 tablespoon of the burger sauce on top.

I fold the tortilla into a half-moon and press gently.

I cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

I repeat with the remaining ingredients, then slice and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap cheddar and mozzarella for pepper jack or American cheese for a different flavor.

For a spicy kick, I mix hot sauce into the burger sauce or add sliced jalapeños.

I like adding shredded lettuce or tomato after cooking for a fresh twist.

For a low-carb option, I make this with low-carb tortillas or serve the smashburger inside a lettuce wrap with cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat them, I use a skillet over low heat to keep the tortilla crispy. The microwave works in a pinch, but it softens the texture. If I’m freezing them, I wrap each one individually in foil and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, I pop them straight into a toaster oven or skillet.

FAQs

How thin should I smash the burger patties?

I smash them until they’re about ¼ inch thick or less. The thinner they are, the crispier they get on the outside.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, I’ve tried ground turkey and even plant-based alternatives. The key is seasoning them well for that rich burger taste.

What kind of skillet works best?

I like using a cast iron skillet for a great sear on the beef, but any nonstick or stainless steel skillet works as long as it holds heat well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I cook the patties and prep the fillings in advance, then assemble and cook the quesadillas fresh when I’m ready to eat.

What sides go well with this?

I usually serve it with fries, a side salad, or coleslaw. Even chips and guac go surprisingly well with it.

Conclusion

Smashburger Quesadillas are a delicious mashup that always hits the spot. I love how quick they are to make, how customizable they are, and how every bite packs in so much flavor. Whether I’m cooking for myself or feeding a crowd, this recipe never disappoints.

📖 Recipe:

Smashburger Quesadilla

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

A Smashburger Quesadilla combines the best of two comfort food favorites—cheeseburgers and quesadillas—into a crispy, cheesy, savory meal. Fast to make and packed with protein, it's perfect for dinner, lunch, or party snacks.

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to make the burger sauce. Set aside.
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
Place a beef ball onto the skillet and smash it thin with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Cook each patty for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through. Remove and repeat with remaining beef.
Wipe the skillet clean and reduce heat to low-medium.
Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle ¼ cup each of cheddar and mozzarella on one half.
Add a cooked smashburger patty on top, then add pickles and onions if using.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of burger sauce over the toppings.
Fold the tortilla in half and press gently. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Repeat with remaining ingredients. Slice and serve hot.