Name: Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 onion, sliced; 4 slices cheddar cheese; 4 slices American cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 2 tbsp melted butter; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

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Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas combine the best elements of burgers and quesadillas into a deliciously melty, crispy dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and a perfect blend of condiments all nestled between golden grilled tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 610
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fat: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 920mg

Why Make This Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas

These Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas are a fun twist on the classic burger, offering an exciting and satisfying flavor profile in a portable format. With the crunch of the tortilla, the savoriness of the ground beef, and the luscious melted cheese, this dish brings comfort in every bite. Plus, they are quick to make, making them ideal for busy nights or leisurely weekends.

How to Make Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas

Step 1: Preparation

Gently mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a medium bowl until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to ensure tender patties. This step is crucial because overmixing can lead to tough burgers.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onions

Preheat a flat griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and spread evenly to coat the cooking surface. Add sliced onions to one side of the griddle. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and softened, approximately 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Patties

Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions and roll each into a loose ball. Keep them loose for proper smashing technique. Place 4 beef balls onto the hot griddle, spacing them evenly. Immediately press each flat with a heavy spatula or burger press to form thin patties about 4 inches across. Cook patties undisturbed until edges are deeply browned and juices bubble through, about 2 minutes. Season the tops with a pinch of salt and pepper. Flip patties and top each with 1 slice of cheddar and 1 slice of American cheese. Cook until melted and edges are crisp, about 1 minute. Transfer to a plate.

Step 4: Assembling and Griddling the Quesadillas

Wipe the griddle clean and reduce the heat to medium. Brush both sides of each tortilla lightly with melted butter. Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and fully combined. Place a tortilla on the griddle. Layer 2 cheesy patties side by side, sprinkle with cooked onions, and drizzle with sauce. Top with a second tortilla.

Cook until the bottom tortilla is golden and crisp, about 2 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula. Flip and cook the second side until golden, about 2 minutes more. Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and rest for 1 minute. Slice into wedges with a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make 2 large quesadillas total. Serve hot with pickles, cilantro, salsa, or sour cream as desired.

How to Serve Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas

Serve these quesadillas alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal or pair them with an assortment of dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They also make a great addition to game day spreads!

How to Store Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas

Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or microwave. If you want to freeze them, wrap each quesadilla in aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas

Use a higher-fat content ground beef for juicier patties.
Customize the cheese blend; pepper jack can add a nice kick!
Don’t skip the resting step after cooking; this allows the cheese to set a bit, making them easier to slice.
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms in the quesadilla.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Quesadillas: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Veggie Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Cheesy Garlic: Sprinkle minced garlic over the quesadilla before adding the patties for a garlicky flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can work well, but be mindful they might require different cooking times.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute soy sauce or omit it entirely without significantly affecting the flavor.
Can I use corn tortillas instead?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but you may want to add more cheese to help them hold together.
How do I ensure my quesadillas don’t get soggy?
Don’t overload them with fillings and make sure to seal the edges well before cooking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and toppings ahead and assemble and cook just before serving.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Griddled Smashburger Quesadillas are not just food, but an experience that brings happiness and thumbs-ups from everyone at the table. With their creamy cheese, savory beef, and crunchy tortillas, what’s not to love? So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightfully cheesy twist on an American classic. Enjoy every bite!