Smashburger Quesadillas: Your New Favorite Weeknight Treat

Name: Smashburger Quesadillas: Your New Favorite Weeknight Treat
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (Choose 80/20 for added richness; substitution: vegetarian ground meat or seasoned black beans.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; to taste Garlic Powder (Burger rub can lend a unique twist.); 4 large Flour Tortillas (If gluten-free, almond flour tortillas work but handle carefully.); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or American; consider mixing cheeses.); Pickles (For a tangy crunch.); Diced Onions (Adds a sharp bite.); Burger Sauce (For a classic burger flavor.); Shredded Lettuce (Freshness that lightens each bite.); Mustard (Classic condiment.); Ketchup (Classic condiment; consider adding kimchi or crushed chips.)

Hi I'm Merry

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on August 21, 2025

There’s something utterly satisfying about the sound of sizzling beef hitting a hot skillet, and today, I’m thrilled to share my Smashburger Quesadillas recipe that perfectly captures that essence. These cheesy delights, stuffed with juicy ground beef and melty cheese, are a game-changer for anyone craving a quick, fulfilling meal without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you’ll find that these quesadillas are not just customizable to fit your taste but also make an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Whether you’re dodging takeout or hosting friends for game night, these quesadillas promise to deliver both comfort and excitement. Curious about the tasty toppings that can take them to the next level? Let’s dive in!

What makes Smashburger Quesadillas irresistible?

Quick, Delicious Meal: These quesadillas come together in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.

Endless Customization: Mix and match toppings such as kimchi or crushed chips to create your own signature dish.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or game day, everyone will rave about this delectable twist on two favorites.

Crispy Perfection: Achieve that satisfying crunch and gooey filling with simple cooking techniques—no fancy gadgets required!

Meal Prep Hero: Make a batch ahead of time, and enjoy warm, toasted quesadillas later; they’re freezer-friendly too!

Elevate your weeknight fare with my Smashburger Quesadillas, and find the joy in cooking delicious meals at home!

Smashburger Quesadillas Ingredients

• Get ready to savor the flavors!

For the Quesadilla

Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides a juicy protein base; choose 80/20 for added richness. Substitution: Try vegetarian ground meat or seasoned black beans for a plant-based take.
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder – Essential seasonings that enhance flavor beautifully; personal touch with a hint of garlic. Note: Burger rub can lend a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Flour Tortillas (4 large) – These hold all the deliciousness together; they’re the perfect canvas! Substitution: If gluten-free, almond flour tortillas work, but handle carefully as they are more delicate.
Shredded Cheese (1 cup, cheddar or American) – Adds irresistible creaminess and flavor; why stop at one cheese?

For Optional Toppings

Pickles – A tangy crunch that complements the richness.
Diced Onions – Adds a sharp bite that balances the flavors.
Burger Sauce – Drizzle this on for a classic burger flavor explosion!
Shredded Lettuce – Freshness that lightens each bite.
Mustard & Ketchup – Classic condiments that provide a nostalgic touch. Consider adding kimchi or crushed chips for a unique twist.

Dive into customizing your own Smashburger Quesadillas, and get ready for a scrumptious meal that’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashburger Quesadillas

Step 1: Preheat Skillet
Begin by heating a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Allow it to warm for about 5 minutes until it’s hot enough that a droplet of water sizzles on the surface. This ensures a perfectly crispy exterior for your Smashburger Quesadillas that everyone will love!

Step 2: Prepare Tortillas
While the skillet is heating, take your large flour tortillas and press a handful of seasoned ground beef onto one side of each tortilla. Make sure to smash the beef down firmly—this will create a hearty, juicy filling that maximizes the flavor of the Smashburger Quesadillas as they cook.

Step 3: Cook Beef
Now, it’s time to place your tortilla beef-side down onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the beef to brown and develop a delicious crust. Keep an eye on it, as the sizzling sound will be your guide to achieving that perfect, juicy burger essence that makes these quesadillas irresistible.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Fold
After the beef is beautifully browned, gently flip the tortilla over using tongs. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the beef, then carefully fold the tortilla in half. Let it grill for an additional 1–2 minutes on each side until the cheese melts beautifully and the tortilla turns golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once cooked, remove your Smashburger Quesadillas from the skillet and allow them to rest for a minute. This rest period prevents cheese spillage. Then, slice them into triangles using a sharp knife, and serve them hot with your choice of toppings like diced onions, pickles, or a drizzle of burger sauce for extra flavor!

What to Serve with Smashburger Quesadillas

Add layers of flavor and delight to your meal with these fantastic pairings that will elevate your Smashburger Quesadillas experience.

Crispy Waffle Fries: The perfect crispy vessel against the soft quesadilla; dip them in your favorite sauce for extra indulgence.
Refreshing Coleslaw: A crunchy, zesty coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the quesadillas perfectly.
Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole and crispy tortilla chips create a flavor explosion, enhancing your meal with fresh, vibrant tastes.
Spicy Nachos: Layered with cheese and jalapeños, nachos provide a shared, fun finger-food experience that complements the quesadillas’ flavor profile.
Chilled Beer or Craft Soda: A cold beverage enhances the casual vibes of this meal, offering an enjoyable balance to the savory quesadilla bites.
Tangy Pickles: A side of pickles adds a delightful crunch and tanginess that cuts through the richness of the quesadilla, perfect for balancing flavors.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness to your plate, contrasting beautifully with the hearty quesadillas.

Dive into these serving suggestions and discover how to make your Smashburger Quesadillas meal an unforgettable experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Smashburger Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ground beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its juicy flavor. Additionally, you can assemble the quesadillas (with cheese included) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days before cooking. Just remember to keep them in the fridge to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the quesadillas until crisp (about 2–3 minutes on each side) for that restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with ease!

Storage Tips for Smashburger Quesadillas

Fridge: Store cooked Smashburger Quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy or microwave for a quick option.
Freezer: Wrap individual quesadillas tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from the freezer in an air fryer or skillet for that crunchy texture.
Reheating: When reheating, aim for a skillet or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it may lead to a soggy quesadilla.
Pre-cooked Storage: If you’re meal-prepping, you can cook and cool them, store as mentioned above, and enjoy ready-made meals that are flavorful and quick!

Expert Tips for Smashburger Quesadillas

Sizzle Test: Before adding your tortillas, sprinkle a few drops of water on the skillet; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s perfectly heated for crispy quesadillas.
Mayo Trick: Lightly brushing each tortilla with mayo before grilling enhances crispness and adds a slight richness to your Smashburger Quesadillas.
Avoid Cheese Spillage: Let the quesadilla rest for a minute after cooking to prevent cheese from oozing out when you cut into it—patience pays off!
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add cooked bacon or veggies into the beef for a delicious flavor boost, just be mindful not to overstuff.
Batch Cook: Make additional quesadillas in advance, cool them, and refrigerate for easy weeknight meals. Reheat in the skillet for optimal crispness!

Smashburger Quesadillas Variations & Substitutions

Want to take your Smashburger Quesadillas to the next level? Here are some exciting ways to customize your dish!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute ground beef with roasted veggies or seasoned black beans for a hearty, plant-based option. This twist adds a vibrant color and a different texture, making your quesadilla just as satisfying without the meat.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to cater to lactose sensitivities while still maintaining that gooey goodness. Coconut-based cheeses melt beautifully and provide a creamy texture in each bite.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, swap in spicy chorizo and pepper jack cheese. This combination will invigorate your taste buds with each cheesy, delicious mouthful, bringing that perfect amount of zest to your meal.
Hawaiian Style: Incorporate thin slices of pineapple for a tropical sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory beef. The juicy fruit can elevate your quesadilla experience into something extraordinary.
Breakfast Quesadilla: Transform them into a breakfast treat by adding scrambled eggs and crumbled bacon. This variation is perfect for those mornings when you’re craving something hearty yet quick to whip up.
Pizza Quesadilla: Use Italian sausage and marinara sauce for dipping to create a fun pizza-inspired version. The blend of flavors will satisfy both pizza and quesadilla fans at your dinner table.
Crunchy Topping: Add crushed tortilla chips or Fritos inside the quesadilla for a delightful crunch. This unexpected twist not only enhances texture but adds a fun surprise in every bite.
Veggie Packed: Mix in zucchini or sautéed bell peppers with the beef to increase your veggie intake. This not only adds nutrition but also creates a colorful burst of flavors and textures in your quesadilla.

Explore these variations to make Smashburger Quesadillas truly your own, or blend in delicious ideas from our other recipes, like our crispy waffle fries that pair perfectly with any of these spicy or savory twists!

Smashburger Quesadillas Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground beef should I use for Smashburger Quesadillas?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef because it has just the right amount of fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful. You can also opt for leaner ground beef if you’re watching your fat intake; just be aware that it may be slightly less juicy. For a plant-based twist, try using vegetarian ground meat or seasoned black beans!

How should I store leftover Smashburger Quesadillas?
To keep your Smashburger Quesadillas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispy texture, or pop them in a microwave for a quick option, though keep in mind they are best crispy!

Can I freeze Smashburger Quesadillas?
Absolutely! For the best results, wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap, then in foil. This way, they can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat straight from the freezer in a preheated air fryer or skillet until they are hot and crispy!

What should I do if my quesadillas are soggy?
Soggy quesadillas can happen if there’s too much moisture in the filling or if they’re stored improperly. To prevent this, ensure you don’t overstuff your quesadillas and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. If you find yourself with soggy quesadillas, simply reheat them in a skillet without a lid to crisp them back up.

Are there any dietary considerations for Smashburger Quesadillas?
Great question! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, you can easily make these quesadillas gluten-free by substituting flour tortillas with almond flour tortillas. Additionally, be mindful of allergies to dairy if you’re using cheese; there are excellent dairy-free cheese alternatives available. If you have pets, it’s always best to keep any seasoned dishes, especially with strong flavors, away from their reach!