Smashburger Quesadillas combine seasoned ground beef smashed directly onto flour tortillas, cooked until crispy, folded with melted American cheese, and finished with classic burger toppings for a handheld, skillet-cooked comfort meal.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb ground beef
- Season salt black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder
- 4 to 5 large flour tortillas burrito size
- 10 slices American cheese
- Optional for serving: pickles diced onions, shredded lettuce, burger sauce
DIRECTIONS
- If using burger sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, and paprika. Set aside.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it’s smoking hot. This is key for getting that signature smash.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 to 5 equal portions. Season generously with season salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Take one portion of beef and press it directly onto one half of a tortilla, spreading it thin and evenly.
- Place the tortilla beef-side down onto the hot skillet. Use a sturdy spatula or burger press and press hard for about 30 seconds to maximize contact.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef is deeply browned and crispy. Flip the entire tortilla so the tortilla side is now on the pan.
- Immediately place 2 slices of American cheese on the beef side. Fold the tortilla in half over the cheese.
- Add a small amount of butter to the pan and cook the folded quesadilla for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from heat, open carefully, and add shredded lettuce, pickles, diced onions, and a drizzle of burger sauce if desired. Serve hot.
