Description
Ingredient Notes
- Ground Beef (80/20 blend): The higher fat content creates the perfect crispy edges when smashed. You can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for lighter options.
- Large Flour Tortillas: Choose burrito-size tortillas for best results. Corn tortillas work but may crack more easily.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that classic burger flavor and melts beautifully. Mix with Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- Yellow Onion: Creates sweet, caramelized flavors when cooked with the beef. Red onion works for a sharper taste.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential for that signature burger seasoning. Fresh garlic can burn at high heat, so powder works better.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth and that classic burger flavor. Soy sauce can substitute in a pinch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Optional: pickles, tomatoes, lettuce for serving
Instructions
- Season the beef: In a bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined.
- Heat the pan: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Cook the onions: Add sliced onions to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Smash the beef: Divide beef into 8 small portions. Place 4 portions in the hot pan and immediately press down firmly with a spatula to create thin patties. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy edges form.
- Flip and finish: Flip patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from pan and repeat with remaining beef portions.
- Assemble quesadillas: Place cheese on half of each tortilla. Top with cooked beef patties and caramelized onions. Fold tortillas in half.
- Cook quesadillas: Wipe pan clean and add butter. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Cut into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with seasoned black beans or plant-based ground meat.
- Healthier Version: Use whole wheat tortillas, lean ground turkey, and add spinach or tomatoes.
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for extra indulgence.
- Different Cheeses: Try a blend of cheddar and pepper jack, or use Mexican cheese blend for authentic flavor.
- Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overmix the beef: Gentle mixing prevents tough, dense patties.
- Avoid moving the beef too soon: Let it develop that crispy crust before flipping.
- Don’t overstuff: Too much filling will make the quesadilla difficult to flip and messy to eat.
- Control the heat: Too high heat will burn the tortilla before the cheese melts.
- Let it rest: Allow quesadillas to cool for 1-2 minutes before cutting to prevent filling from spilling out.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store leftover quesadillas wrapped in foil for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual quesadillas in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Use a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or microwave for 30-45 seconds. Avoid toaster ovens as they can make tortillas tough.
- Meal Prep Tip: Cook the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Assemble and cook quesadillas fresh for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Sides: Serve with crispy french fries, onion rings, or sweet potato fries.
- Fresh Options: Pair with a simple side salad, coleslaw, or fresh fruit.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or burger sauce for dipping.
- Beverages: Perfect with ice-cold beer, sodas, or fresh lemonade.
- Make it a Platter: Serve with pickle spears, cherry tomatoes, and assorted chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg