Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 lb Ground beef (80/20 blend is best)
- 2 Large flour tortillas
- 4 Slices American cheese or sharp cheddar
- 1/2 Small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1/4 Cup sliced pickles
- 2 Cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/4 Cup mayonnaise
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 Tablespoon ketchup
- 1 Teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/2 Teaspoon garlic powder and paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Toppings. Start by mixing the mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Set this aside to let the flavors meld. Finely dice your onions and shred the lettuce so everything is ready for assembly. Once the meat hits the pan, things move quickly.
- Step 2: Press the Beef onto the Tortilla. Divide the ground beef into two equal portions. Place one portion in the center of a flour tortilla. Using your hands or a spatula, spread the raw beef into a very thin, even layer that covers almost the entire surface of the tortilla. Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Searing the Smash Burger. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the tortilla meat-side down onto the hot surface. Use a heavy press or a large spatula to press down firmly. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes without moving it. This creates that iconic crispy beef crust. The tortilla will naturally puff up slightly as the meat cooks underneath.
- Step 4: The Flip and Cheese Melt. Carefully slide a wide spatula under the beef and flip the entire tortilla over so the beef is now facing up. Immediately place two slices of cheese over the hot meat. Cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds to help the cheese melt. Once the bottom of the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the heat.
- Step 5: Assembly and Folding. Slide the quesadilla onto a cutting board. Add a generous spoonful of the special burger sauce, a handful of shredded lettuce, onions, and pickles to one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half over to create a semi-circle. Cut into wedges and serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the beef is crunchy.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes