Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 mouth-watering Qdoba-inspired recipes! As a fan of Mexican cuisine, you know that Qdoba’s flavorful dishes are always a hit. But what if you could bring those same bold flavors and spices into your own kitchen? From burritos to tacos, quesadillas to soups, we’ve gathered the most popular Qdoba recipes and given them a spicy twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fiesta-worthy feast, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 Spicy Qdoba Recipes Inspired by Mexican Cuisine that will make your taste buds do the salsa. From classic burrito bowls to innovative twists on traditional dishes, each recipe is carefully crafted to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to spice up your life!
Qdoba-Style Chicken Burrito Bowl
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic burrito bowl! This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy veggies, all packed into a nutritious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Qdoba-style sauce (or make your own using chipotle peppers in adobo, sour cream, lime juice, and cumin)
– 1 medium bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked brown rice
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and cumin. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the bell pepper mixture.
6. Stir in Qdoba-style sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Divide cooked brown rice among four bowls, then top each bowl with the chicken and bell pepper mixture. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Beef Quesadilla
Spicy Qdoba Beef Quesadilla Recipe
Get ready to level up your quesadilla game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Spicy Qdoba Beef Quesadilla is packed with tender beef, melted cheese, and a kick of heat from the chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, melt a small amount of cheese on one half of each tortilla.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto the cheese, followed by some shredded cheese.
6. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
8. Serve hot with cilantro, chipotle peppers, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Copycat Qdoba Mango Salsa
Get ready to taste the sweet and tangy flavor of Qdoba’s signature mango salsa at home! This easy-to-make recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, perfect for topping your favorite dishes or as a dip for chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice.
2. Add garlic and cilantro; mix well.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off)
Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Qdoba Mango Salsa!
Qdoba-Inspired Grilled Veggie Burrito
Transform the flavors of your favorite burrito into a grilled, veggie-packed delight. This recipe combines tender veggies, creamy sauce, and crispy tortilla for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, onions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Qdoba-style seasoning blend
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon salsa
– Optional: avocado, cilantro, and/or diced tomatoes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with Qdoba-style seasoning blend. Grill veggies for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Warm tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burrito by placing grilled veggies down the center, followed by cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
5. Top with avocado, cilantro, and/or diced tomatoes if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Qdoba Chicken Enchiladas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious twist on traditional enchiladas. Tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and crispy tortillas come together in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups Creamy Qdoba Sauce (see note)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
3. Spoon shredded chicken onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour Creamy Qdoba Sauce over the rolled tortillas.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Note: You can find Creamy Qdoba Sauce at your local grocery store or make your own by combining 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1 teaspoon cumin in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Qdoba-Style Cilantro Lime Rice
Get the authentic taste of Qdoba’s signature rice at home with this easy-to-make recipe! This flavorful dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
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
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Qdoba Black Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the bold flavors of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder with tender black beans and rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the black beans, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Qdoba-Style Steak Tacos with Guacamole
Elevate your taco game with this Qdoba-inspired recipe that combines tender steak, crispy tortillas, and creamy guacamole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Guacamole (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Steak Tacos:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the steak.
4. Grill steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Slice steak into thin strips.
Guacamole:
1. Mash ripe avocados in a bowl with a fork.
2. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro (optional).
Assembly:
1. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
2. Assemble tacos by placing steak strips onto tortillas and topping with guacamole.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Qdoba Queso Dip
Get ready to dip into the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Qdoba-inspired queso recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add half-and-half or heavy cream, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the queso is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and stir to ensure even consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or as a dip for your favorite snacks!
Qdoba-Inspired Shrimp Fajitas
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this shrimp fajita recipe, inspired by Qdoba’s signature dish. Succulent shrimp, crunchy bell peppers, and savory spices come together in a vibrant and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, bell peppers, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and the peppers are tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked shrimp mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Pork Carnitas
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this spicy and flavorful pork carnitas recipe, inspired by the popular chain restaurant Qdoba. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas, for serving
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork chunks, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Cook over medium-low heat, covered, for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded pork onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Qdoba-Style Corn and Black Bean Salad
Experience the flavors of Qdoba’s famous salad with this easy-to-make recipe at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle cilantro on top and toss gently.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: None (using pre-cooked black beans and frozen corn)
– Total time: 10 minutes
Zesty Qdoba Chicken Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful tostadas, packed with juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet Qdoba Zesty Chicken seasoning (or homemade equivalent)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and chicken; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tostadas by spreading black beans on each tortilla, followed by chicken, bell pepper, onion, cheese (if using), and a sprinkle of Qdoba seasoning.
5. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba-Inspired Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito, inspired by the popular Qdoba chain. This recipe combines scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and creamy avocado for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 lb bulk pork sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and/or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook sausage until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt and pepper. Scramble eggs in the same skillet used for sausage.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burritos by adding scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, avocado, and half of the shredded cheese to each tortilla.
5. Roll up burritos tightly and serve with remaining cheese sprinkled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy Qdoba Pico de Gallo
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this simple and tangy pico de gallo recipe, inspired by the flavors of Qdoba. This fresh and spicy condiment is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Add chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Qdoba-Style Chipotle Chicken Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this Qdoba-inspired recipe that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and queso fresco.
2. Add cooked chicken on top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, olive oil, and lime juice.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Qdoba Salsa Verde
Add a tangy twist to your tacos with this sweet and spicy salsa verde recipe, inspired by the flavors of Qdoba. This condiment is perfect for topping your favorite dishes, from tacos to grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, jalapeño, lime juice, garlic, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the salsa reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Qdoba-Inspired Beef and Bean Chili
Get ready to warm up with this flavorful and hearty chili inspired by Qdoba’s signature dish! This recipe combines tender beef, creamy beans, and a blend of spices for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, black beans, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouthwatering Qdoba-inspired recipes! From classic burritos and quesadillas to soups and salads, this collection has something for everyone. Try making a Qdoba-style chicken burrito bowl or indulging in creamy enchiladas. For added heat, try the spicy beef quesadilla or pork carnitas. And don’t forget to add some zesty salsas and dips to your meals! Whether you’re craving Mexican-inspired comfort food or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
