Name: Hamburger Quesadilla
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 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 inch whole wheat flour tortillas; 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese; diced tomatoes (optional); sliced pickles (optional); shredded lettuce (optional)

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Nothing beats a cozy evening at home when you can whip up something comforting like a Hamburger Quesadilla. I often find myself craving that perfect blend of crispy tortillas and melted cheese, all wrapped around delicious ground beef. Picture a chilly night, and there I am, in the kitchen, ready to create a dish that combines my love for hamburgers and Mexican flavors. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Skillet, Cutting Board

Why This Hamburger Quesadilla Works

It’s the Perfect Comfort Food

There’s something inherently satisfying about the Hamburger Quesadilla. The combination of warm, crispy tortillas and savory beef creates a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet simple. I love how it brings the classic flavors of a hamburger into a new, exciting format.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

On hectic weeknights, this recipe shines. You can have this meal on the table in no time, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The straightforward process means you can focus on enjoying your time with loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best things about the Hamburger Quesadilla is its versatility. You can add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it extra spicy or loaded with veggies, this dish can easily adapt to your cravings or dietary preferences.

Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for a fantastic next-day lunch. Just pop them in the microwave or reheat in a skillet, and you’re ready to go. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making them even tastier!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual game night or simply enjoying a quiet dinner, the Hamburger Quesadilla is sure to impress. Its fun, hearty nature makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Budget-Friendly Meal

This recipe won’t break the bank! It uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have at home. It’s a smart choice for those looking to enjoy delicious meals without a hefty price tag.

What to Buy for Hamburger Quesadilla

The ingredients for a Hamburger Quesadilla are simple yet effective. Each plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor profile. From the lean ground beef to the shredded cheddar cheese, these ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

2 teaspoons of olive oil: This will help to cook the beef while adding a subtle richness.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
2 pounds of lean ground beef: The main protein that gives this quesadilla its hearty texture.
1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor of the beef mixture.
3/4 teaspoon of onion powder: Complements the fresh onion for a deeper flavor.
1/2 teaspoon of salt: Essential for seasoning the ground beef.
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
3 tablespoons of ketchup: Introduces a tangy sweetness that balances the meatiness.
1 tablespoon of yellow mustard: Provides an additional layer of flavor.
Cooking spray for the skillet: Ensures that nothing sticks during cooking.
8-inch whole wheat flour tortillas: These will be the base of your quesadilla.
4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese: The melty goodness that holds everything together.
Optional: diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, shredded lettuce for extra toppings.

How to Cook Hamburger Quesadilla

Cooking a Hamburger Quesadilla is straightforward and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through creating this delicious dish. You’ll be savoring the flavors in no time!

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm. This will create a nice base for cooking your filling.
Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This process is crucial as it builds the foundational flavor for your quesadilla.
Next, add in the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring occasionally until it is browned thoroughly. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. The beef should be cooked all the way through and no longer pink.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices coat the meat evenly. This step is vital for enhancing the overall taste of your filling.
Stir in the ketchup and yellow mustard. These condiments will provide a lovely balance of sweetness and tang, making the filling irresistible. Cook for another minute just to heat through.
Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set it aside. Wipe down the skillet and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
Place one tortilla in the skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on one half of the tortilla.
Top the cheese with a portion of the beef mixture, followed by another layer of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula.
Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing into wedges. This resting time will help keep the cheese from spilling out when you cut it.
Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and filling. You can keep the cooked quesadillas warm in a low oven while you finish the rest. This ensures they’re all ready to serve at the same time.
Serve your Hamburger Quesadilla hot with optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, and shredded lettuce. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Method: Make sure to use medium heat to prevent burning the tortilla while ensuring the beef cooks properly.
Cheese Selection: Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex flavor. Cheddar pairs well, but Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add creaminess and heat.
Resting Time: Allow the quesadillas to rest for a minute after cooking. This will help the cheese set and prevent a messy serving.
Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe for larger gatherings. These quesadillas freeze well for quick meals later.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic Hamburger Quesadilla, you might feel inspired to mix things up! There are endless variations to explore, depending on your mood and pantry. Here are some ideas to consider.

Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the beef mixture for a bit of heat. You can also use spicy cheese to amp up the flavor.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture for a healthy twist.
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, to create a unique flavor profile.
Sweet and Savory: Mix in some diced pineapples with the beef for an unexpected sweet contrast.
Healthy Swap: Use whole grain or gluten-free tortillas to make this dish fit various dietary needs.
Creative Dipping: Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping to enhance your meal experience.
Breakfast Quesadilla: Add scrambled eggs and black beans instead of beef for a delicious breakfast version.

Side Dish Ideas for Hamburger Quesadilla

When it comes to serving your Hamburger Quesadilla, there are plenty of side dishes that can complement this delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Fresh Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance.
Salsa and Chips: Classic tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa create a fun appetizer or side dish.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a fantastic accompaniment that adds a rich texture to your meal.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve with a side of seasoned rice or quinoa for a hearty addition that fills the table.
Roasted Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or corn make for colorful, nutritious side options.
Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh fruit can brighten up the meal and add a sweet touch.
Black Bean Salad: A cold black bean salad with corn, cilantro, and lime brings a burst of flavor to every bite.
Seasonal Veggies: Consider serving seasonal vegetables based on the time of year for an extra touch of freshness.

FAQ

A Hamburger Quesadilla is a delightful fusion dish that combines the classic flavors of a hamburger with the fun of a quesadilla. It typically consists of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and sometimes additional toppings, all enclosed in a crispy tortilla. It’s a versatile meal that can be customized to suit your taste, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat the filling and assemble the quesadillas. If you want to prepare the whole dish in advance, you can also freeze the assembled quesadillas. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

The beauty of a Hamburger Quesadilla is in its versatility! You can customize it with a variety of toppings. Consider adding diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or fresh jalapeños for some heat. Additionally, serving it with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side enhances the flavors and adds extra creaminess. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your preferences!

Leftover Hamburger Quesadilla can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but keep in mind that the tortillas may become a bit soft. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cooked quesadillas, separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Quesadilla is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Easy to make and customizable, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. I encourage you to try making this scrumptious meal at home; it’s a perfect way to enjoy the best of both worlds!