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This Meximelt recipe is a fantastic way to recreate a beloved Taco Bell menu item that is no longer available in stores. It’s simple to make and captures that familiar blend of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh pico de gallo all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. Perfect for a cozy dinner or casual meal that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.
I first made this during a casual family game night and everyone instantly requested it again the next week. It’s easy to customize and hits all the right comfort food notes without complicated prep.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound gives the hearty meaty base choose lean for less grease
- Taco seasoning: two tablespoons adds classic spicy flavor homemade works beautifully too
- Taco sized flour tortillas: six for easy wrapping and ideal bite size fresh or thawed soft ones work best
- Mexican shredded cheese blend: two cups melts perfectly and offers that authentic mix of cheeses
- Pico de Gallo: three quarters cup brings fresh acidity and texture homemade with ripe tomatoes makes all the difference
- Tomato: one cup chopped for bright flavor and juiciness pick firm but ripe
- Onion: two tablespoons finely chopped for a mild kick sweet or white onions are great
- Lime juice: one tablespoon fresh squeezed to add brightness and balance
- Salt: quarter teaspoon to enhance all the flavors
- Cilantro: one tablespoon chopped adds herbal freshness use fresh and rinse before chopping
- Jalapeno: half seeded and chopped for gentle heat adjust or omit depending on your spice tolerance
Instructions
- Salsa Preparation:
- Combine diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, lime juice, salt, cilantro, and jalapeno in a bowl. Stir gently to mix. Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld while you prepare everything else.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and begin breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula into very small pieces. Continue cooking until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease if needed. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and add the amount of water specified on your seasoning package or about two tablespoons if homemade. Stir and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes so the spices infuse into the meat and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Wrap the flour tortillas in a clean kitchen towel and microwave for about 20 seconds. This step makes them pliable and prevents cracking or tearing when rolling.
- Assemble the Meximelts:
- Lay a warm tortilla flat on your work surface. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese down the center. Spoon on a portion of the seasoned beef and then add some of the chilled pico de gallo on top. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly like a small burrito to secure all the fillings.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Wrap each assembled Meximelt in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20 seconds until the cheese is melted and everything is warm. Be careful not to overheat or the tortilla will become tough.
- Serve Immediately:
- Remove from the microwave and serve hot so you enjoy that perfect combination of melted cheese and fresh salsa contrast.
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This recipe is a fun reminder of childhood fast food favorites and is perfect for chats around the dinner table. The fresh salsa always makes me think of summer backyard parties, even when enjoyed indoors.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap each Meximelt tightly to keep moisture in the fridge for three to four days. Reheat in the microwave for about 45 seconds or until warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner version though the flavor profile will be lighter. You can also swap out the Mexican cheese blend for mozzarella and cheddar in equal parts if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of cilantro lime rice, refried beans, or guacamole for a well-rounded Mexican-inspired meal. A cold drink like horchata or a light beer pairs nicely here as well.
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These Meximelts are quick and customizable, perfect for a nostalgic comfort meal. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
Use lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and texture that crisps up nicely when cooked.
- → How do I make pico de gallo fresh and flavorful?
Combine chopped tomatoes, onions, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, and a pinch of salt for a bright, chunky salsa.
- → What cheese blend works well for melting?
A Mexican shredded cheese blend with cheddar and Monterey Jack melts smoothly and adds rich flavor.
- → Can the tortillas be warmed before assembling?
Yes, warming tortillas keeps them pliable and prevents cracking when filled and rolled.
- → How long should the assembled tacos be heated?
Microwave wrapped tacos for about 20 seconds to melt the cheese evenly without overcooking.