Go Back
+ servings
Easy Qdoba Gladiator Taco Recipe

Qdoba Gladiator Taco Recipe

Joe Williams
The QDOBA Gladiator Taco is not just any taco. It’s a powerhouse of taste and texture, packed full of flavor. When I first tried this dish, the combination of seasoned meat, crisp veggies, and zesty toppings left an impression.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 2 Servings
Calories 207 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Seasoning Blend:

  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
  • 1 tablespoon garlic granules
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

For the Meat:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup prepared taco seasoning blend

Instructions
 

  • Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare Your Taco Seasoning Blend

  • Combine all the taco seasoning ingredients in a bowl. Mix them well until you get a smooth blend. This seasoning can be stored for future use, so consider making a double batch!

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  • In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of lean ground beef. Crumble the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Seasoning

  • Stir in 3/4 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the cooked meat. Next, sprinkle in your taco seasoning blend. Stir well for an even distribution of flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Mixture

  • Let the mixture simmer on low for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and blend successfully. You’ll want to keep stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas

  • While your meat simmers, warm up your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or microwave them wrapped in a kitchen towel for about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

  • Now comes the fun part! Fill each shell with meat and layer on your favorite toppings. Start with lettuce, then add tomatoes, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and don’t forget that dollop of salsa.

Step 7: Enjoy

  • Dig in! Take a big bite and relish the burst of flavors.

Notes

Here are some additional tips to elevate your taco game:
  • Use fresh toppings: Freshness makes a difference! Opt for ripe avocados and seasonal veggies.
  • Be season-savvy: Adjust the spices in your taco seasoning to get the kick you crave.
  • Don’t overcrowd the taco: Less is sometimes more. Give each ingredient its space to shine.
  • Heat the tortillas: Warm tortillas make a world of difference in texture and taste.
  • Experiment: Feel free to substitute proteins. Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based options work wonderfully.

Nutrition

Serving: 175gCalories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 3.3gSodium: 4615mgFiber: 11gSugar: 7g
Keyword Qdoba Gladiator Taco Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!