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Maple Bacon Cheeseburger Quesadillas

Maple Bacon Cheeseburger Quesadillas

A sweet and savory fusion dish combining seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a drizzle of maple syrup, all wrapped in a warm, crispy tortilla. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this handheld meal offers a unique twist on classic cheeseburger flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Assembly Time 4 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Non-stick skillet For cooking ground beef and assembling quesadillas.
  • 1 Spatula For flipping quesadillas and stirring ground beef.
  • Optional Pastry brush For applying butter or oil to tortillas.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 small Flour tortillas Medium-sized tortillas work best; gluten-free options available.
  • 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 blend) Provides juiciness and flavor.
  • 6–8 slices Thick-cut bacon Cooked until crispy; store-bought maple bacon is optional.
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Adds creaminess and improves meltability.
  • 1–2 tbsp Maple syrup Drizzled for sweetness; adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder For seasoning the ground beef.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Enhances savory notes.
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika Optional for smoky depth.
  • Salt and pepper To taste Seasoning for beef.
  • 1-2 tbsp Butter or olive oil for brushing tortillas. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Cook the Ground Beef:

    • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.

    Prepare the Bacon:

    • Cook bacon in a skillet or oven until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.

    Assemble the Quesadillas:

    • Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush one side of a tortilla with butter or oil and place it buttered-side down in the skillet.
    • Layer shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over half the tortilla.
    • Add cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Top with more cheese to help bind the filling.
    • Fold the tortilla in half and press gently with a spatula.

    Cook the Quesadillas:

    • Cook for 3–5 minutes on one side until golden and crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side until the cheese is fully melted and the tortilla is golden.

    Serve:

    • Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm with dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, guacamole, or sour cream.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
      • Freezing: Freeze assembled but uncooked quesadillas in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time per side.
      • Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Substitute beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
      • Yes, assemble the quesadillas without cooking them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Cook as directed before serving.
       
    2. What type of cheese works best?
      • Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal for flavor and meltability. Monterey Jack or a blend can also be used.
       
    3. How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?
      • Use warm tortillas and avoid overstuffing. Gluten-free tortillas may require extra care when folding.
       
    4. Can I use store-bought maple bacon?
      • Absolutely! Store-bought maple bacon saves time and still delivers great flavor.
       
    5. What are some good dipping sauces?
      • Classic options include ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
       
    6. Can I make these quesadillas vegetarian?
      • Replace ground beef with black beans, mushrooms, or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef for extra depth.
    • Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls for visual appeal.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftover quesadillas into a breakfast hash by chopping them into pieces and scrambling with eggs.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream over the quesadillas for freshness.
    • Serving Style: Serve on a wooden board or platter with small bowls of dipping sauces arranged around the quesadillas.
    • Pairings: Include sides like fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
     
    Keyword Cheeseburger Quesadillas, Maple Bacon Quesadillas, Sweet and Savory Fusion