The Quesadilla Burger from Applebee's features a juicy beef patty layered with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy pico de gallo, all sandwiched between two golden, grilled quesadilla-style tortillas for a savory and satisfying twist on a classic burger.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Bacon press or tongs
- Plate
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 medium tomato
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
Using fresh, high-quality ground beef ensures a juicy patty, while seasoning with salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors. Opt for thick-cut bacon to achieve a crispy texture without burning during cooking. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts perfectly between the grilled quesadilla tortillas for a rich, gooey layer. Make sure to finely dice the tomato and red onion for a balanced pico de gallo that adds freshness and tang. Your homemade Quesadilla Burger from Applebee's copycat menu will deliver the same savory satisfaction as the original when these ingredient tips are followed closely.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Form ground beef into 4 patties; season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill beef patties to desired doneness; set aside.
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; drain on plate lined with paper towels.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Prepare pico de gallo: dice tomato, red onion, jalapeño, and chop cilantro; mix with lime juice in a bowl.
- Spread butter on one side of each tortilla.
- Place buttered side down; sprinkle cheddar cheese over half of each tortilla.
- Top with a beef patty, bacon, a spoonful of pico de gallo, and additional cheese.
- Fold tortillas over or use two tortillas for a sandwich style.
- Grill or pan-fry assembled tortillas until golden and cheese is melted, flipping as needed.
- Spread mayonnaise inside tortillas if desired.
- Cut quesadilla burgers in halves or quarters.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Quesadilla Burger from Applebee's copycat menu combines a juicy beef patty, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh pico de gallo between grilled quesadilla-style tortillas, offering a flavorful twist on a traditional burger. Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based meat for dietary preferences or restrictions. If you don't have a grill pan, a regular non-stick skillet works well for cooking both the patties and toasting the tortillas. Jalapeno can be omitted or replaced with milder peppers to adjust spiciness to your taste. When assembling, gently press the quesadilla to help the cheese melt evenly without making the tortillas soggy.
Tips
Make sure to evenly season the ground beef patties with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor of your Quesadilla Burger. When cooking bacon, use a skillet and a bacon press or tongs to achieve crispy, evenly cooked slices without burning. Butter the tortillas on one side before grilling to ensure a golden, crispy exterior and prevent sticking to the grill or pan. Your pico de gallo should be fresh and well-mixed with lime juice to balance the richness of the meat and cheese, adding a vibrant, tangy contrast to the dish.
Nutritions
The Quesadilla Burger from Applebee's delivers a rich source of protein from the 1 lb ground beef and crispy bacon, essential for muscle repair and energy. Cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the pico de gallo, made with tomato, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro, provides antioxidants and vitamin C for immune support. Flour tortillas contribute carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the added butter and mayonnaise increase the calorie content, making this a hearty meal. You can balance indulgence by pairing this dish with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to boost fiber and nutrient intake.
Storage
Store any leftover Quesadilla Burgers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and food safety. Reheat gently on a skillet or grill pan to preserve the crispy texture of the tortillas and melted cheese, ensuring your meal stays delicious.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option, maintaining similar cooking times to ensure juiciness. Replace cheddar cheese with pepper jack or Monterey Jack to introduce a spicy or creamy flavor variation. Substitute bacon with crispy fried chorizo or omit it entirely for a vegetarian-friendly dish, adding grilled mushrooms or avocado slices for extra texture. Your pico de gallo can be customized by adding mango or pineapple chunks to balance heat with sweetness, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Allergies
The Quesadilla Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and mayonnaise, gluten from the flour tortillas, and potentially eggs if present in the mayonnaise. Bacon and jalapeno could also trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to preservatives or capsicum. Your best option is to check ingredient labels carefully and inform the restaurant about any specific allergies before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Quesadilla Burger from Applebee's restaurant combines the bold flavors of a classic burger with the cheesy, crispy layers of a quesadilla, creating a unique and satisfying meal experience. Juicy beef patty, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings are sandwiched between two warm, grilled tortillas that add a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension. You'll appreciate the fusion of Tex-Mex and American comfort food that makes this menu item a standout favorite among diners. Recreating this copycat recipe at home allows you to customize ingredients while enjoying the indulgent taste without a restaurant visit.