This cheeseburger quesadilla is a fun twist on a classic! Gooey cheese and juicy beef are tucked inside crispy tortillas, making every bite super tasty.
And that homemade sauce? It’s a game changer! I love dipping my quesadilla in it—it’s like a party of flavors! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and the kids adore it too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For best results, use lean ground beef. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well, though they can be a bit drier. You could even use a plant-based ground meat if you want a vegetarian option!
Cheese: I love the combination of cheddar and American cheese for that perfect meltiness. If you want to switch it up, try pepper jack for a bit of spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are ideal for holding all the fillings, but corn tortillas can work too. Just note that corn tortillas are smaller and require two for a filling. Whole wheat tortillas are another healthy alternative!
Dill Pickles: Dill pickles give a nice crunch and tang. If you’re not a fan, try using sweet pickles or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even omit them altogether!
How Do I Get My Quesadilla Crispy and Melty?
The key to a crispy quesadilla is cooking it on medium heat with a bit of oil or butter. Don’t rush this step! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet properly. A hot pan helps create that lovely golden crust.
- Use enough oil or butter to coat the skillet lightly—this helps prevent sticking and promotes browning.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. If it’s cooking too fast, reduce heat so the cheese has time to melt without burning the tortilla.
Letting the quesadilla rest before cutting helps everything stay together. Enjoy your cooking!
Cheeseburger Quesadilla With Easy Homemade Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quesadilla:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and American cheese)
- 3-4 dill pickle slices, chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
For the Easy Homemade Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp pickle juice (optional, for tang)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Use a spatula to break it apart while it cooks. When it’s done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Season the Beef:
Next, season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Make the Easy Homemade Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and pickle juice (if you like). Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir well. Place it in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to serve.
4. Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a clean large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little oil or butter to coat the pan.
5. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Lay one tortilla flat in the hot skillet. Spread about 1/4 of the cooked beef over half of the tortilla. Then, sprinkle about 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the beef and add some chopped dill pickles.
6. Cook the Quesadilla:
Fold the tortilla in half over the filling. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the quesadilla, cooking the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully.
8. Cool and Cut:
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Then, slice it into wedges for easy dipping!
9. Repeat and Serve:
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Serve the cheeseburger quesadillas hot, alongside the easy homemade sauce for dipping.
Enjoy this crispy, cheesy quesadilla packed with seasoned ground beef and pickles, paired with a creamy, tangy sauce that brings it all together!
FAQ for Cheeseburger Quesadilla With Easy Homemade Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option! Just be aware that it can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash of beef broth while cooking to keep it juicy.
How Do I Make the Quesadilla Vegetarian?
You can easily switch to a vegetarian cheeseburger quesadilla by using plant-based ground meat or beans instead of beef. For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, along with your favorite cheese.
What Should I Do With Leftover Quesadilla Filling?
Any leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use it to make more quesadillas, or add it to salads or wraps for another meal!
Can I Freeze These Quesadillas?
Absolutely! Prepare the quesadilla but don’t cook it. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then fry as directed until crispy!
