Cheeseburger Quesadilla Recipe

🍔 Cheeseburger Quesadilla

The best of both worlds — a cheesy, juicy cheeseburger wrapped in a golden, crispy quesadilla!

When you can't decide between a burger and a quesadilla, why not have both? This Cheeseburger Quesadilla is everything you love about a classic burger — seasoned beef, melted cheddar, pickles, and ketchup — tucked into a crispy tortilla instead of a bun. It’s a quick, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a game-day snack.


🧾 Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced pickles
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard (optional)
  • 1 tsp butter or oil for cooking

🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook the Beef:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Build the Quesadilla:
    Lay a tortilla flat and spread ketchup and mustard (if using) on one half.
    Add a layer of cheese, a scoop of the cooked beef, diced pickles, and tomatoes.
    Top with more cheese and fold the tortilla over.
  3. Crisp It Up:
    Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    Cook the quesadilla 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, with gooey cheese inside.
  4. Slice & Serve:
    Let it rest for a minute before slicing into wedges. Serve hot with extra ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

👨‍🍳 Tips:

  • Add cooked bacon or grilled onions for an upgrade.
  • Swap in pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese twist.
  • Make it spicy with jalapeños or chipotle mayo.

❓ Cheeseburger Quesadilla – FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond or Impossible work great. Just make sure to season them well.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic for that bold burger flavor, but you can also use American, pepper jack, or a blend like cheddar-mozzarella for extra meltiness.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the quesadillas and store them in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Cook them fresh for the crispiest result.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer for 2–3 minutes to keep the tortilla crispy. Avoid the microwave—it can make it soggy.

Can I freeze them?

Definitely. Cooked quesadillas freeze well. Let them cool, wrap tightly in foil or plastic, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven.

What sauces go well with this?

Classic ketchup or ranch is great, but you can also try:

  • Burger sauce
  • Chipotle mayo
  • Garlic aioli
  • Spicy mustard
  • BBQ sauce