Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering Qdoba-inspired recipes! Qdoba’s bold flavors and spices have captured the hearts of many, but what if you could bring that same excitement home? From spicy burrito bowls to cheesy quesadillas, and from savory soups to zesty salsas, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of meat or plant-based options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Qdoba-inspired recipes.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of Mexico, with recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic dishes like tacos and burritos to innovative twists on traditional recipes, these 20 spicy Qdoba recipes will add some serious heat to your mealtime routine.
Let’s get started!
Spicy Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowl
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional burritos, this recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cooked white rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Warm cooked rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble burrito bowls by placing chicken mixture on top of rice, followed by avocado, jalapeño, and cheese (if using).
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Qdoba-Style Steak Fajita Quesadilla
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of a Qdoba-style fajita quesadilla, packed with tender steak, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-inch flour tortilla
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a plate and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Slice the cooked steak into thin strips and add on top of the cheese.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Qdoba Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup inspired by the popular Mexican chain, Qdoba. This creamy black bean soup is a perfect blend of spices, beans, and vegetables, guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add the red bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half; keep warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Qdoba-Inspired Mango Salsa
Add a twist to your taco nights with this sweet and spicy Qdoba-inspired mango salsa! This recipe combines the freshness of mango with the bold flavors of jalapeño and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Serve:
This salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. Enjoy!
Loaded Qdoba Beef Nachos
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with this loaded recipe featuring tender beef, creamy cheese, and all the fixin’s.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet of Qdoba-style seasoning (or similar)
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 6-8 nacho chips or tortilla chips
– Salsa and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef according to package instructions, using Qdoba-style seasoning. Drain excess fat.
3. Arrange nacho chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Spoon refried beans over the chips, followed by cooked beef.
5. Top with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeño.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with salsa and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Qdoba Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice
Recreate the flavorful rice from your favorite Mexican-inspired fast food chain with this easy-to-make copycat recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and cumin to the saucepan.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Qdoba Pork Tacos
Get ready to fiesta with these mouthwatering Smoky Qdoba Pork Tacos! This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, smoky chipotle peppers, and creamy sour cream for a truly unforgettable taco experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sour cream
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the pork shoulder, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing the pork, spooning it onto a tortilla, topping with sour cream, and garnishing with cilantro if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Qdoba-Style Three Cheese Queso
Savor the rich flavors of this creamy three-cheese queso, reminiscent of Qdoba’s signature dip. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the half-and-half and stir until smooth.
3. Gradually add the three cheeses, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the queso reaches your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zesty Qdoba Shrimp Burrito
Get ready to dive into a flavorful and filling burrito packed with succulent shrimp, creamy queso, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-inch flour tortilla
– Qdoba-style queso (or Monterey Jack cheese)
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the shrimp and spices to the skillet; cook until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the burrito by spreading queso down the center of the tortilla, followed by the shrimp mixture, and finishing with cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Qdoba-Inspired Grilled Veggie Bowl
Get ready to savor a flavorful and healthy bowl filled with grilled vegetables, savory spices, and creamy sauce. This Qdoba-inspired recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup zucchini
– 1 cup yellow squash
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
– 1/4 cup Qdoba-style sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, combine Qdoba-style sauce with a splash of water (optional).
6. Assemble bowls by placing grilled vegetables on top of cooked rice, followed by a drizzle of the prepared sauce. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Chorizo Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful fiesta with these spicy Qdoba chorizo tacos! Crunchy, crispy tortillas filled with spicy chorizo, creamy avocado, and tangy slaw will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Mexican chorizo sausage
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup red cabbage slaw (cabbage, lime juice, salt)
– 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice chorizo into thin strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and crispy.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing cooked chorizo onto tortillas, followed by avocado, slaw, and pickled jalapeños.
5. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Qdoba Copycat Guacamole
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and delicious Qdoba-inspired guacamole recipe, perfect for dipping chips or topping tacos.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic to the bowl with the avocado.
3. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro leaves.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Enjoy your delicious Qdoba-style guacamole!
Qdoba-Style Barbacoa Burrito
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Mexico with this Qdoba-style burrito recipe, featuring tender barbacoa beef and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or flank steak
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Canned diced tomatoes
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Sour cream
– Diced avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling with barbacoa beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and avocado (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including simmer time)
Chipotle Qdoba Chicken Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and flavorful Chipotle Qdoba Chicken Salad recipe! This twist on a classic salad combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, the crunch of crispy tortilla strips, and the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crispy tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, queso fresco, cilantro, and chipotle pepper.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and toss to coat.
3. Top with diced avocado and crispy tortilla strips.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Qdoba-Inspired Pinto Beans
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pinto beans, inspired by the popular fast-casual chain Qdoba. These tender beans are perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water
– Optional: lime wedges, cilantro, or sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked pinto beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges, cilantro, or sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Qdoba Beef Enchiladas
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering cheesy enchiladas packed with tender beef, savory sauce, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of Qdoba-style enchilada sauce (or homemade equivalent)
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 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, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the Qdoba-style enchilada sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Top the enchiladas with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Qdoba-Style Lime Marinated Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this Qdoba-inspired lime marinated recipe! A refreshing twist on traditional marinades, this one’s a must-try for citrus lovers.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight (up to 12 hours).
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Qdoba Jalapeño Corn Salsa
This spicy salsa is a perfect combination of sweet corn, smoky jalapeños, and tangy lime juice. It’s a great addition to tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip for chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced fresh jalapeño peppers (about 2-3 peppers)
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder for added depth
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, jalapeño peppers, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salsa and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in cumin powder if using.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Qdoba-Inspired Mexican Street Corn
Get ready to taste the flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make Qdoba-inspired street corn recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta, if desired)
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with lime juice and season with salt.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred.
4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Slather the mayonnaise mixture onto the grilled corn ears.
6. Sprinkle cotija cheese over the top of each ear.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Qdoba Copycat Tortilla Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this Qdoba-inspired tortilla soup, packed with tender chicken, creamy tortillas, and savory spices. This copycat recipe is an easy and affordable alternative to the popular fast food chain.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups water
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, crushed tortilla chips, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering Qdoba-inspired recipes! From burrito bowls and quesadillas to soups and salads, this collection has something for everyone. Try the Spicy Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowl or the Qdoba-Style Steak Fajita Quesadilla for a flavorful twist on classic dishes. Or, go bold with the Loaded Qdoba Beef Nachos or the Cheesy Qdoba Beef Enchiladas. With a range of options to suit every taste and dietary need, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
