If you’re on the lookout for a delicious twist on an old favorite, look no further than this Hamburger Quesadilla! Combining the classic flavors of a hamburger with the gooey goodness of a quesadilla, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. With crispy tortillas and a hearty beef filling, your family will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Hamburger Quesadilla is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The savory ground beef, complemented by the melty cheddar cheese and a hint of ketchup and mustard, gives it that classic burger taste everyone loves. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy days. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring that no two quesadillas are ever quite the same.

Ingredient Checklist

2 teaspoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Cooking spray for the skillet
8 (8-inch) whole wheat flour tortillas
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, shredded lettuce

Equipment Breakdown

Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for cooking the quesadillas to a perfect golden brown.
Spatula: Essential for flipping the quesadillas without losing any of that cheesy goodness.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onion and any additional toppings you want to add.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.

Hamburger Quesadilla Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper while the beef is browning. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add Condiments

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in 3 tablespoons of ketchup and 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard. Mix well and remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas

Spray your skillet with cooking spray and place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a generous amount of the beef mixture on top of the cheese. Finally, sprinkle another 1/2 cup of cheese over the beef and fold the tortilla in half.

Step 5: Cook the Quesadilla

Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla using the spatula, and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, or shredded lettuce for added freshness and crunch.

Better-for-You Options

Use low-fat ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option.
Substitute whole grain tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
Add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture for extra vitamins.
Opt for reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories and fat.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of the Hamburger Quesadilla lies in its savory flavor profile. The combination of ground beef, sautéed onions, and a mix of ketchup and mustard brings the essence of a juicy hamburger right into a crispy tortilla. The melted cheddar cheese ties everything together, creating a delightful experience with every bite. Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover Hamburger Quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through. Alternatively, you can pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, but for the best texture, the skillet method is recommended.

What to Make After This

Let’s Eat

With its easy preparation, delicious flavor, and endless customization options, the Hamburger Quesadilla is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to indulge in a cheesy, meaty delight that combines the best of both worlds!