Description
These Smashburger Quesadillas combine crispy smashed beef patties with gooey cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all sandwiched between lightly toasted flour tortillas. This recipe offers a deliciously savory twist on traditional quesadillas, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Quesadilla Components
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Season the beef: In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix gently to incorporate the seasonings without overworking the meat.
- Form and smash patties: Divide the seasoned beef into 8 equal portions and loosely form each into a ball. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, place each ball onto the surface, and smash them flat with a spatula.
- Cook the patties: Cook the smashed patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a crispy, browned exterior. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Assemble quesadillas: Lay 4 tortillas flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle each with a mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, add some diced red onions, then place one cooked beef patty on top. Add more cheese on top of the patty and cover each with the remaining tortillas.
- Cook quesadillas: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil. Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently, until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
- Serve: Remove the quesadillas from the skillet, slice them into wedges, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, press the quesadilla gently with a spatula while cooking.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add jalapeños or salsa inside the quesadilla for a spicy kick.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding patties or quesadillas to achieve a nice sear and prevent sticking.
