Are you craving a flavorful and unique twist on classic quesadillas? Look no further! Our Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla is the perfect blend of juicy cheeseburger goodness and cheesy quesadilla perfection. Ideal for weeknight dinners, game day, or any time you need a satisfying meal, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
What Makes the Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla Special?
The Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla combines the best elements of two beloved dishes: cheeseburgers and quesadillas. By using the Blackstone griddle, you achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior with perfectly melted cheese and seasoned ground beef inside. The griddle’s even heat distribution ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, making this dish a standout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (80/20 for the perfect balance of fat and flavor)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (for that classic cheeseburger taste)
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (adds creaminess and melts beautifully)
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet (for a zesty, flavorful kick)
- Tortillas: 4 large flour tortillas (for the quesadilla base)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped (adds a bit of crunch and sweetness)
- Pickles: 1/2 cup, sliced (a nod to the classic cheeseburger)
- Ketchup and Mustard: For serving (optional, but recommended for that burger flair)
- Oil: 2 tbsp (for grilling the quesadillas)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the surface. Place the ground beef on the griddle, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Meat: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay a tortilla flat on a cutting board. Spread half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the tortilla. Evenly distribute half of the seasoned ground beef on top of the cheese. Add a layer of chopped onions and pickles. Top with a second tortilla.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a little oil on the Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled quesadilla on the griddle. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the griddle and let it rest for a minute. Slice into wedges and serve with ketchup and mustard if desired.
Tips for Perfect Quesadillas
- Griddle Heat: Make sure the griddle is preheated properly to achieve a crispy exterior without burning the tortillas.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Customize: Add additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or bacon bits for an even more indulgent experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla is not just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas creates a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to please. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a party, this quesadilla recipe is a surefire way to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious fusion of two classic dishes in one irresistible bite!
Serving and Storage Tips for Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla
Serving Tips
- Garnish: Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing the quesadillas with fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of green onions.
- Dips and Sauces: Serve with a variety of dips and sauces for added flavor. Options include sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or extra ketchup and mustard.
- Accompaniments: Pair your quesadillas with side dishes such as a fresh salad, coleslaw, or some crispy potato wedges to create a well-rounded meal.
- Cutting and Serving: After cooking, let the quesadillas rest for a minute to set. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice them into wedges or quarters for easy serving. This also helps ensure the cheese doesn’t ooze out.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the quesadillas warm to enjoy the melted cheese and crispy texture. They’re best eaten fresh but can be enjoyed at room temperature if needed.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Allow them to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked quesadillas. Wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen quesadillas, use a skillet or the Blackstone griddle for the best results. Heat over medium-low heat to crisp up the tortillas and melt the cheese evenly. You can also reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Avoid Microwaving: While you can microwave quesadillas, it’s not the best method for maintaining crispiness. If using a microwave, place the quesadillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel to avoid sogginess. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
- Storage Tips for Raw Ingredients: If you’ve prepped ingredients ahead of time, store the cooked ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shredded cheese and tortillas can be kept in their original packaging or airtight containers in the refrigerator.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadillas remain delicious and enjoyable long after they’ve been made.
1. Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices that provide great flavor and meltability, you can experiment with other cheeses. Consider using mozzarella for a milder flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
2. Can I make the quesadilla ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quesadilla ahead of time. For the best results, assemble the quesadillas and then cook them just before serving. If you need to prepare them in advance, you can cook them fully, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them on a skillet or in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the Blackstone Cheeseburger Quesadilla, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables. For example, you could use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a hearty, veggie-filled quesadilla. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to complement your chosen ingredients.
4. Can I use a regular skillet instead of a Blackstone griddle?
Yes, you can use a regular skillet if you don’t have a Blackstone griddle. A large, non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan will work well. Heat the skillet over medium heat and follow the same cooking instructions, making sure to adjust the heat as needed to achieve a crispy exterior without burning the quesadillas. If your skillet is small, you may need to cook the quesadillas in batches.