If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delicious meal that combines the flavors of a juicy hamburger with the crispy goodness of a quesadilla, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Hamburger Quesadilla recipe! This dish is not only perfect for weeknight dinners but also makes for a fantastic game-day snack or a fun twist for taco night. Loaded with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and all your favorite burger toppings, this quesadilla is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your household.
Why It Deserves a Spot
The Hamburger Quesadilla deserves a spot at your dinner table for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different toppings, from classic burger fixings like lettuce and tomatoes to adventurous options like jalapeños or BBQ sauce. Additionally, it’s a great way to use leftover ground beef, making it both economical and easy. Plus, who can resist the crispy exterior paired with gooey cheese? It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Ingredient Breakdown
For this Hamburger Quesadilla, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and adding flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: The star of the show, providing the hearty filling.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor profile of the meat.
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds an extra layer of onion flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
- 3 tablespoons ketchup: For that classic burger taste.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: A must-have for burger flavor.
- Cooking spray for the skillet: To prevent sticking while cooking.
- 8 (8-inch) whole wheat flour tortillas: The perfect vessel for your quesadilla.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melty goodness that binds it all together.
- Optional toppings: Diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, etc.
What’s in the Gear List
To make your Hamburger Quesadilla, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for crisping the tortillas.
- Spatula: For flipping the quesadillas with ease.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and any other fresh toppings.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure you get the seasoning just right.
- Bowl: For mixing the beef filling.
Mastering Hamburger Quesadilla: How-To
Let’s break down the steps to create this mouthwatering Hamburger Quesadilla!
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add the 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the 2 pounds of lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, ketchup, and yellow mustard. Mix until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadilla
Lay out four tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the beef mixture evenly among them, then sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over each. Top with the remaining tortillas.
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
Spray the skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Carefully place one quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into wedges. Serve with optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, and shredded lettuce.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
Elevate your Hamburger Quesadilla experience with these seasonal serving ideas:
- Top with fresh avocado or guacamole for a creamy texture.
- Add a side of salsa or pico de gallo for a refreshing kick.
- Serve with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the quesadilla.
- For a fall twist, incorporate roasted pumpkin or sweet potatoes in the filling.
If You’re Curious
Wondering about the origins of this delightful dish? The Hamburger Quesadilla is a fusion creation that combines traditional Mexican quesadilla with classic American burger flavors. It’s a fun and inventive way to enjoy two beloved comfort foods in one bite. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you want to prepare your Hamburger Quesadilla in advance, they are freezer-friendly! Here’s how:
- Assemble the quesadillas but do not cook them.
- Wrap each uncooked quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the cooking instructions.
Handy Q&A
Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
What can I serve with Hamburger Quesadilla?
These quesadillas pair perfectly with sides like Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls, a fresh salad, or some crispy potato wedges.
How do I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider including jalapeños in the beef mixture or topping your quesadilla with spicy salsa or hot sauce.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also load it up with your favorite veggies.
More from the Kitchen
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out these delicious options for your next meal:
Save & Share
If you loved this Hamburger Quesadilla recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and who doesn’t love a good quesadilla? Save it to your favorite recipe box or share it on social media for others to enjoy.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delicious Hamburger Quesadilla!
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Hamburger Quesadilla
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the 2 pounds of lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, ketchup, and yellow mustard. Mix until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Lay out four tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the beef mixture evenly among them, then sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over each. Top with the remaining tortillas.
- Spray the skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Carefully place one quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into wedges. Serve with optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, and shredded lettuce.
Notes
- Customize your quesadilla with different toppings like jalapeños or BBQ sauce.
- Use leftover ground beef to make this dish economical and easy.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based substitute.
