Copycat Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger Recipe

The irresistible Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger is Bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavors, this burger combines fresh pico de gallo, creamy cilantro lime sauce, melty pepper jack cheese, and a juicy beef patty in a way that leaves your taste buds dancing.

How to make Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger

The Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger is a limited-time offering that combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with Whataburger’s signature quality.

Ingredients

For the Burger:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best for juicy patties)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 burger buns (soft and toasted)
• 4 slices of pepper jack cheese
• Butter (for toasting buns)

For the Pico de Gallo:

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt (to taste)

For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pico de Gallo

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Add lime juice and sprinkle with a bit of salt to taste.
3. Mix everything together and let it sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro in a small bowl.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prep the Burger Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form into patties that are slightly larger than your buns (the meat will shrink as it cooks).
2. Season each patty with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

1. Heat a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
2. Cook each patty for about 3–4 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness.
3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover briefly so the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of each burger bun and toast them on a skillet or grill until golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread a generous layer of cilantro lime sauce on the bottom bun.
2. Place the beef patty with melted cheese on top.
3. Add a scoop of fresh pico de gallo over the burger patty.
4. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

Tips for a Perfect Pico de Gallo Burger

• Use fresh ingredients: The pico de gallo’s vibrancy depends on fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, so avoid pre-packaged options for the best flavor.
• Toast your buns properly: A golden, buttery bun adds a delicious crunch and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Control the heat: If you love extra spice, leave the seeds from your jalapeño. If you prefer it mild, remove them completely.
• Don’t overcook the patties: For that juicy, flavorful bite, keep an eye on your cooking time and don’t press down on the patties while they cook.

What to serve with

The Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger is a mouthwatering masterpiece with bold Tex-Mex flavors, making it the centerpiece of any meal.

a. French Fries

Why they work: Crispy golden fries are the ultimate burger companion. Their mild, salty flavor perfectly balances the bold spiciness of the burger.

Suggestions: Try spicy seasoned fries, sweet potato fries, or waffle fries for variety. Don’t forget to serve them with ketchup or additional cilantro lime sauce for dipping.

b. Onion Rings

Why they work: The crunchy sweetness of onion rings pairs well with the savory and spicy elements of the burger.

Tip: Serve them with a side of ranch or chipotle mayo for extra flavor.

c. Tater Tots

Why they work: Bite-sized and crispy, tater tots offer a fun and satisfying texture to round out your burger meal.

Tip: Sprinkle them with chili powder or smoked paprika for a little heat that complements the burger’s peppers.

Ingredients Substitutes

The Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients like pico de gallo, beef patties, Monterey Jack cheese, and creamy cilantro lime sauce, all assembled on a toasted bun.

1. Pico de Gallo Substitute

Pico de gallo is made traditionally from fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño peppers, and salt. If you’re missing any key ingredients, here’s how you can substitute:

• Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes or roasted red bell peppers as a replacement. The flavor will differ slightly but can still add that juicy base.
• Onions: Shallots or green onions can substitute for fresh diced onions. Choose shallots for a milder taste or green onions for added color.
• Cilantro: Fresh parsley or a tiny amount of dried coriander can be used in place of cilantro. Parsley won’t replicate the flavor perfectly but adds a fresh herbal note.
• Lime Juice: Lemon juice makes a great alternative to lime juice. You can add a pinch of zest to intensify the citrusy flavor.
• Jalapeño Peppers: Use serrano peppers, bell peppers (for a milder taste), or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier option.
• Salt: Kosher salt or sea salt can replace regular table salt.

2. Beef Patty Substitute

The Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger features a juicy beef patty. There are several alternative options if beef isn’t available or preferred:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Lean ground turkey or chicken can be used. Add seasoning (like smoked paprika or onion powder) to enhance the flavor and mimic the heartiness of beef.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Option: A veggie patty or plant-based patty like Impossible Burger or Beyond Burger works well for vegetarian/vegan diets.
• Ground Pork or Lamb: These meats can be substituted if you want to experiment with bolder or richer flavors.

3. Monterey Jack Cheese Substitute

Monterey Jack cheese provides a mild, creamy texture to the burger. If it’s unavailable, consider these alternatives:

• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is mild and creamy, though less tangy than Monterey Jack.
• Havarti Cheese: Havarti offers a similar creaminess and slightly tangy profile.
• Provolone Cheese: A good alternative if you prefer a cheese with a slightly sharp flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Use mild or medium cheddar cheese. While it’s sharper than Monterey Jack, it pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Vegan Cheese: For dairy-free options, use plant-based cheeses such as Daiya or Violife.

4. Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Substitute

The creamy cilantro lime sauce ties all the components of the burger together. If you don’t have all the ingredients to make it, try these substitutes:

• Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise with a squeeze of lime juice works as a quick alternative.
• Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt mixed with cilantro and lime juice offers a tangy and creamy replacement.
• Sour Cream: Use sour cream and mix in lime juice and a pinch of garlic powder for a similar texture.
• Avocado-Based Option: Mash avocado with lime juice and salt for a creamy alternative with a richer consistency.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo or cashew cream blended with lime juice and cilantro for a dairy-free substitute.

5. Burger Bun Substitute

The traditional burger uses toasted sandwich buns, but alternatives can be used depending on availability or dietary needs:

• Brioche Buns: For a buttery, slightly sweet flavor, brioche buns are a fantastic option.
• Pretzel Buns: Adds a more savory, dense texture to the burger.
• Whole Wheat Buns: A healthier option with more fiber.
• Lettuce Wraps: Perfect for gluten-free or low-carb diets.
• Sourdough Bread: Toasted slices of sourdough bread can replace the buns for additional tanginess.

Final Thoughts

With this recipe, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy the signature Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger in the comfort of your home. 

More Burger Recipes:

• Copycat Wendy’s Takis Burger Recipe
• Copycat Burger King Dragon Whopper Recipe
• Copycat Whataburger Mushroom Swiss Burger Recipe
• Homemade 7th Street Burger Recipe