Quesadilla Burger {Applebee’s Copycat} Recipe

Introduction

The Quesadilla Burger is a delicious fusion of classic cheeseburgers and cheesy quesadillas, inspired by Applebee’s. This recipe combines juicy grilled beef patties with melted cheddar, fresh Pico de Gallo, and a creamy tangy sauce, all sandwiched between lightly toasted flour tortillas.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (96% lean recommended)
• 12 street taco-size flour tortillas
• 12 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups Pico de Gallo
• 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup ketchup

Instructions

1. Step 1: Form the ground beef into 6 hamburger patties. Make them thinner than usual, about 4 to 5 inches in diameter, to better fit the tortillas. Preheat a grill to 400º Fahrenheit and grill the patties until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165º Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: While the burgers cook, spray a frying pan with cooking spray and heat it over medium-low. Lightly toast the tortillas for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned but still a bit chewy inside.
3. Step 3: Place one slice of cheddar cheese on a toasted tortilla. Then, add a cooked burger on top of the cheese and place another slice of cheese over the burger.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and ketchup together. Fold in 3/4 cup of Pico de Gallo to create the flavorful sauce.
5. Step 5: Spread some of the sauce on the burger, then add a spoonful of Pico de Gallo and shredded lettuce. Finish by topping with another toasted tortilla to complete the quesadilla burger.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the melty, juicy goodness.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños to the Pico de Gallo or mix hot sauce into the mayo-ketchup blend.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier twist.
• Grill the tortillas directly on the grill for extra smoky flavor instead of toasting in a pan.

Storage

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties gently in a skillet or microwave and toast tortillas again to regain crispness before assembling. Avoid assembling and storing the complete quesadilla burgers to keep the tortillas from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, though cooking times may vary. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe 165º Fahrenheit.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour ones to make the quesadilla burger suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Quesadilla Burger {Applebee’s Copycat} Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 85 reviews

This Quesadilla Burger is a delicious Applebee’s copycat recipe featuring juicy grilled beef patties layered between toasted flour tortillas with melted cheddar cheese, fresh pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, and a tangy homemade sauce made from ketchup and mayonnaise. Easy to prepare and perfect for a flavorful twist on a classic burger.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 quesadilla burgers 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Patties

• 2 pounds ground beef (96% lean)
• Cooking spray (for toasting tortillas)

Tortillas & Cheese

• 12 street taco-size flour tortillas
• 12 slices cheddar cheese

Toppings

• 1 1/2 cups Pico de Gallo
• 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce

Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup ketchup

Instructions

1. Form Patties: Shape the 2 pounds of ground beef into 6 thinner hamburger patties with a diameter of about 4-5 inches to fit the tortillas better.
2. Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to 400º Fahrenheit. Grill the patties until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165º Fahrenheit, ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
3. Toast Tortillas: While the burgers are grilling, spray a frying pan with cooking spray and set the stove to medium-low heat. Lightly toast each flour tortilla for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown but still slightly chewy inside.
4. Assemble Base Layers: Place one slice of cheddar cheese on a toasted tortilla, then put the grilled burger on top, followed by another slice of cheese over the burger to encourage melting.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Mix the ketchup and mayonnaise together in a small bowl. Stir in 3/4 cup of the Pico de Gallo to infuse fresh flavor into the sauce.
6. Add Toppings and Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the sauce mixture over each burger. Then add another spoonful of Pico de Gallo and a layer of shredded lettuce for freshness and crunch.
7. Top It Off: Cover the stacked ingredients with another toasted flour tortilla to create the quesadilla-style burger.
8. Serve: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this flavorful, handheld quesadilla burger.

Notes

• Make sure the grill is fully preheated before cooking patties to ensure even cooking.
• Use medium-low heat when toasting tortillas to avoid burning and maintain softness inside.
• Customize toppings by adding sliced avocado or pickles for extra flavor.
• For a spicier kick, add jalapeños to the pico de gallo or sauce.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and maintain a healthier burger.

Keywords: Applebee’s copycat, quesadilla burger, grilled burger, toasted tortillas, cheddar cheese, pico de gallo, easy burger recipe