Are you a fan of Qdoba’s bold and zesty flavors? Do you crave dishes that pack a punch and leave you wanting more? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouth-watering Qdoba-inspired recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From spicy burrito bowls to creamy quesadillas and everything in between, these recipes will transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these Qdoba recipes are easy to make and bursting with flavor. And the best part? They’re all inspired by the popular chain’s menu items, so you know they’re tried and true!
In this article, we’ll be exploring everything from classic burritos and tacos to innovative twists on traditional dishes. So if you’re ready to spice up your meals and add some excitement to your cooking routine, let’s dive in and get started!
Copycat Qdoba Burrito Bowl
Get the flavor of Qdoba’s popular burrito bowl at home with this easy recipe. This copycat version is a delicious and customizable meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burrito bowls by placing cooked chicken mixture onto a tortilla, then topping with cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba-Style Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful rice dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, with the brightness of lime juice and freshness of cilantro perfectly balanced. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for burritos and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water, lime juice, and chopped cilantro to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Chicken Quesadilla
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Qdoba’s signature chicken with the comfort of a warm, cheesy quesadilla. Spice up your mealtime with this easy-to-make twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Sour cream, salsa, and avocado for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble quesadillas by placing shredded cheese on half of each tortilla, then topping with chicken mixture and folding in half.
5. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and melted.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Capture the vibrant spirit of Qdoba’s popular salsa with this easy-to-make recipe, featuring black beans, corn, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeño peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir gently.
3. Add olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add diced jalapeño peppers for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, or use as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Qdoba-Inspired Grilled Steak Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of grilled steak with the bold flavors of Qdoba’s signature style. Sizzling steak, crispy tortillas, and a medley of savory toppings come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Qdoba-style toppings (choose your favorites): diced onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the steak with the marinade.
4. Grill steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled steak into thin strips and serving with your favorite Qdoba-style toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Qdoba Queso Dip
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy dip inspired by the popular Mexican chain Qdoba! This recipe is a cinch to make and perfect for dipping tortilla chips, veggies, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cheese, half-and-half, green chilies, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the dip has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Qdoba-Style Mango Salsa Chicken
This Qdoba-inspired recipe brings together the sweetness of mango and the spiciness of chipotle peppers to create a mouth-watering chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (4-6 peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and chipotle peppers in a bowl.
6. Serve the chicken with the mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba Veggie Fajita Bowl
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this Qdoba-inspired Veggie Fajita Bowl recipe! This flavorful and nutritious bowl is packed with sautéed vegetables, savory seasonings, and a hint of Mexican flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 8 ounces cooked chicken or black beans for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add zucchini and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings (such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Qdoba Barbacoa Beef
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this slow-cooked Smoky Qdoba Barbacoa Beef recipe. This tender and juicy beef dish is infused with the rich aromas of smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat lard or oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chipotle pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add beef to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer beef and sauce to slow cooker. Pour in beef broth and cover.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Qdoba-Style Three Cheese Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this recipe that combines the perfect blend of cheeses and savory flavors, just like Qdoba’s famous nachos. Get ready to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Colby Jack cheese.
4. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
5. Top with black beans and red bell pepper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Qdoba Chicken Tortilla Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup combines the best of Qdoba’s famous flavors with the convenience of a quick homemade meal. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious pot of goodness to warm up your belly and your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they’re softened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Shrimp Burrito
This Spicy Qdoba Shrimp Burrito recipe is a twist on the classic burrito, filled with succulent shrimp, spicy sauce, and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for those looking to spice up their lunch or dinner routine!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Qdoba-style salsa (or similar)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 8-inch flour tortilla
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the salsa to the shrimp mixture and stir to combine.
5. Warm the tortilla in the microwave or oven.
6. Assemble the burrito by placing the cooked shrimp mixture onto the tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba-Style Pinto Beans
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful Qdoba-style pinto beans recipe, perfect for topping tacos, burritos, or using as a side dish. This simple and delicious recipe is a great alternative to canned beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cheesy Qdoba Beef Enchiladas
Get ready to elevate your enchilada game with this mouth-watering recipe! This dish combines tender beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet Qdoba-style seasoning blend
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) enchilada sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in Qdoba-style seasoning blend.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spreading beef mixture onto each tortilla, then rolling and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, followed by shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Qdoba-Style Guacamole with Chips
Experience the flavorful twist on classic guacamole from Qdoba’s popular menu at home! This recipe combines creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and spices for a delicious dip to enjoy with crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, garlic, and cumin.
3. Add the avocado halves to the bowl and use a fork to mash until mostly smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 0 minutes)
Qdoba-Inspired Pulled Pork Tacos
Transform the flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant into a delicious homemade dish with this easy recipe for pulled pork tacos. With tender, slow-cooked pork and a blend of spices, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice blend all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the pulled pork onto a tortilla, followed by cheese and desired toppings.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Qdoba Veggie and Cheese Quesadilla
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold flavors of Qdoba’s famous veggie and cheese filling with a crispy grilled twist.
Ingredients:
• 2 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
• 1/2 cup cooked Qdoba-style veggies (such as bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and cooked veggies.
3. Place one tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle half of the veggie-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Brush both sides of the quesadilla with olive oil and place it on the grill for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and slightly charred.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with the second tortilla and filling.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Qdoba-Style Spicy Adobo Chicken
Add a kick to your meal with this Qdoba-Style Spicy Adobo Chicken recipe. This flavorful dish is perfect for those who love spicy food and are looking for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 8 oz diced bell peppers, 1 large onion, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with marinade.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Qdoba Beef and Bean Burrito
Loaded Qdoba Beef and Bean Burrito Recipe
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful fiesta with this loaded burrito recipe! This hearty, cheesy delight combines tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy toppings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet Qdoba-style seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in Qdoba-style seasoning and black beans. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling with beef mixture, cheese, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba-Inspired Lime Marinated Chicken Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this refreshing Qdoba-inspired lime marinated chicken salad, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. Tender grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lime dressing come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, mixed veggies, queso fresco, and red onion.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
6. Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these delicious Qdoba-inspired recipes! From burrito bowls to quesadillas, tacos to nachos, and even soups and salads, there’s something for every spicy food lover. With copycat versions of popular Qdoba dishes, as well as creative twists on classic flavors, you’ll never get bored. Plus, many of these recipes are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of chicken, beef, or veggies, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 flavorful Qdoba recipes.
