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This Bacon Cheeseburger Quesadilla recipe delivers everything you love about a juicy bacon cheeseburger in a quick and crispy quesadilla format. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you are craving classic flavors with almost no fuss.
My family always lights up at the smell of crispy bacon and melting cheddar on the stove. Quesadillas like these have turned simple weeknights into festive cheeseburger nights in my house.
Ingredients
- Bacon: Sliced into small pieces for smoky savory crunch in every bite. Choose thick cut bacon for extra flavor and meaty texture.
- Ground beef: Lean or with a bit of fat both work. Look for beef that is bright red and avoid overly gray or mushy packs.
- Chopped onion: To bring out sweetness and balance the richness of the beef and bacon. Fresh yellow onion gives the best flavor.
- Tomato paste: For that classic burger tang and a boost of umami. Use double concentrated paste if possible.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory notes acting almost like the seasoning in your favorite burger.
- Mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness that ties the beef together. A smooth yellow or Dijon mustard works well.
- Cream cheese: Brings creamy richness and helps hold the filling together. Select full fat for the smoothest melt.
- Tortillas: Pick your favorite type regular low carb or gluten free. Go for soft and pliable tortillas that fold easily.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Is the finishing touch for that mouthwatering cheeseburger melt. Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor and melty results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Bacon:
- Cook bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir often and let the fat render out until the bacon is crisp and browned. This step lets the bacon flavor infuse the pan. Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Carefully pour off the bacon grease but keep a thin coat in the pan for better flavor in the next steps.
- Brown the Beef and Onion:
- In the same skillet add ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the meat with a spatula and stir often as it browns. Cook until the beef is fully cooked through and the onions are softened. This can take about six to seven minutes over medium heat. Drain off fat for a less greasy filling.
- Build the Cheeseburger Filling:
- Lower the heat to the lowest setting. Return the crisped bacon to the skillet. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and cream cheese. Stir thoroughly as the cream cheese melts and blends creating a thick creamy burger style filling. Let it warm through just until everything is fully combined.
- Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over one half of each tortilla. Add a hefty portion of the warm beef mixture. Fold tortillas over into a half moon shape pressing gently to seal. This approach keeps the cheese close to the tortilla for great melt and crisping.
- Toast the Quesadillas:
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle to medium. Mist lightly with oil or melt a bit of butter. Place stuffed quesadillas in the pan and cook until golden brown and crispy about two to three minutes per side. Flip gently and watch closely so they do not scorch. Rest on a wire rack for a few moments before slicing.
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Cheddar and bacon truly make this recipe. The cheese bubbles up golden and stretchy while the smoky bacon is always the first thing everyone tastes. My kids now ask for these every birthday movie night.
Storage Tips
Leftover quesadillas store well in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool fully and keep in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet for the crispiest results or pop them in the toaster oven for convenience. If you want to freeze simply wrap tightly and freeze up to two months then reheat straight from frozen.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter spin that keeps all the burger flavor. Substitute Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a new twist. For dairy free needs look for vegan cream cheese and a plant based shredded cheese. Gluten free tortillas can be swapped in easily and taste great.
Serving Suggestions
Serve wedges with classic cheeseburger toppings like dill pickle chips sliced tomatoes or shredded lettuce. A side of ketchup or burger sauce makes a perfect dip. These also pair well with a simple green salad or crispy sweet potato fries for a fun family meal.
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A Bit of History
Quesadillas are a classic Mexican creation but this version draws inspiration from American drive in favorites. Turning a cheeseburger into a skillet meal is one way home cooks keep family traditions alive while making weeknights simple and fun. I first tried this recipe at a tailgate and it has been on repeat ever since.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep quesadillas crispy?
Use medium heat and avoid overfilling to prevent excess moisture. Let quesadillas cool slightly before cutting so the tortillas stay crisp.
- → Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for varied melt and flavor profiles.
- → Are low-carb tortillas necessary?
Low-carb tortillas make this dish keto-friendly, but regular or gluten-free options work as well.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Pair with pickles, a side salad, or dipping sauces like sour cream or ketchup for extra flavor.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead?
Yes, the beef and bacon mixture can be made in advance and refrigerated. Assemble and cook fresh for best texture.