Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger Recipe ⁠[Copycat]

There’s something special about recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home. It’s not just about the taste; it’s the satisfaction of knowing you’ve made something truly delicious with your own two hands.

This Copycat Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger Recipe brings the beloved flavors of Applebee’s straight to your kitchen. Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned burger nestled between two cheesy, crispy quesadillas—sounds amazing, right? Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering dish.

What Makes This Quesadilla Burger So Special?

Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger is a delightful fusion of a classic burger and a cheesy quesadilla, bringing together two favorites in one incredible bite. The crispy tortillas, melted cheese, juicy beef patty, and the creamy Mexi-ranch sauce create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the recipe to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to change up your burger game.

Essential Ingredients for Your Quesadilla Burger

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this restaurant-quality meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Burger Components

• ⅔ lb ground beef – This will make two patties, perfect for a hearty meal.
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 4 small flour tortillas – These act as the burger buns.
• ¼ cup cheddar cheese, shredded – For that cheesy goodness inside the quesadilla.
• 2 slices pepper jack cheese – Adds a bit of spice to the burger.

Toppings and Sauces

• 2 tablespoons salsa – Gives a fresh and tangy kick to the Mexi-ranch sauce.
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing – Adds creaminess to the sauce.
• ¼ cup shredded lettuce – Provides a fresh crunch.
• ¼ cup pico de gallo – Enhances the freshness with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• 4 pieces bacon, cooked – Because bacon makes everything better.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Quesadilla Burger

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Cook the bacon until crispy and set aside. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and get your skillet heated over medium heat. This ensures everything will cook evenly and on time.

2. Form and Cook the Patties

Shape the ground beef into two equal patties, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper. Once your skillet is hot, cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Add a slice of pepper jack cheese to each patty after flipping them. Let the cheese melt while the burgers finish cooking.

3. Prepare the Quesadillas

While your patties are cooking, arrange the flour tortillas on a baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each tortilla. Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are lightly toasted and crisp.

4. Mix the Mexi-Ranch Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the salsa and ranch dressing to create a tangy, creamy sauce. This Mexi-ranch sauce will add a burst of flavor to your quesadilla burger.

5. Assemble the Quesadilla Burger

It’s time to bring everything together. Start by spreading 1 tablespoon of the Mexi-ranch sauce on each tortilla. On two of the tortillas, layer on the shredded lettuce and pico de gallo. On the other two tortillas, place the cooked bacon.

Next, place the cheese-topped burger patties on the tortillas with the pico de gallo. Cover with the tortillas that have bacon on them, press down gently, and voila! You’ve just made your own quesadilla burger.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Cut the quesadilla burgers in half and serve immediately while they’re still warm and cheesy. Pair them with some fries, a side salad, or even a fresh guacamole dip for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Quesadilla Burger Experience

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pico de gallo, crisp lettuce, and high-quality ground beef will make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Customize Your Cheese: If you like it spicy, stick with pepper jack. If you prefer something milder, switch to Monterey Jack or more cheddar.
• Crisp It Up: For extra crispy tortillas, you can lightly brush them with a bit of oil before baking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the quesadilla burgers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like guacamole, jalapeños, or even a fried egg. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy Your Homemade Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a homemade version of your favorite restaurant dish. This Copycat Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger is sure to become a new favorite in your home. It’s fun to make, delicious to eat, and a perfect way to bring a taste of Applebee’s right to your table. Happy cooking!