Ultimate Copycat Taco Bell Meximelt Recipe: Recreate a Discontinued Classic at Home
Unlock the flavors of a beloved fast-food favorite with this incredible homemade Meximelt recipe. Easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and even better than you remember from Taco Bell!
For many of us, there’s a special place in our hearts (and stomachs!) for discontinued fast-food menu items. The thrill of recreating those nostalgic flavors at home is unmatched, and Taco Bell fans are particularly passionate about bringing back their old favorites. Just like the wildly popular Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, which has made its glorious return, the Meximelt holds a unique position in the pantheon of Taco Bell legends. While the Mexican Pizza is back, the fate of the Meximelt remains uncertain. But don’t despair! You can now master this incredible copycat Meximelt recipe in your own kitchen, bringing that cheesy, beefy, salsa-filled goodness right to your dining table. If you love recreating Taco Bell classics, be sure to also try our amazing Grilled Cheese Burrito recipe for another satisfying meal.
The Taco Bell Meximelt was once a shining star on the menu, a true fan-favorite that garnered a loyal following. Its removal from the menu left many yearning for its distinct combination of textures and flavors. While the Mexican Pizza has since graced us with its presence once more, there are currently no indications that the Meximelt will follow suit. However, this absence creates the perfect opportunity for home cooks to shine! This copycat recipe is not only incredibly easy to follow but often yields a result that surpasses the original in freshness and taste. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that brings back those cherished memories with every delicious bite.
What Exactly Was the Taco Bell Meximelt?
For those unfamiliar with this legendary item, the Meximelt was a brilliant fusion that skillfully combined elements of a soft taco and a quesadilla. Imagine a warm, pliable flour tortilla generously filled with a blend of perfectly melted cheese, Taco Bell’s signature seasoned ground beef, and a vibrant scoop of their fresh “Fresco” salsa. It was designed to be served warm, not grilled or toasted, allowing the cheese to be perfectly gooey and the tortilla soft. This unique preparation method made it a delightful, handheld snack or a perfect complement to a larger meal.
Tragically, in August of 2019, Taco Bell decided to discontinue the Meximelt as part of a larger menu simplification effort. At that time, many items that utilized specific, less common ingredients, such as the Fresco salsa, were phased out. This move saddened countless fans who adored its simple yet satisfying profile. While Taco Bell has shown signs of reintroducing popular items and expanding their menu in recent times, the Meximelt has yet to make a comeback. But even if it were to return, nothing truly compares to the satisfaction and superior taste of a homemade version, crafted with fresh ingredients and personalized care!
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Meximelt
Before you dive into recreating this iconic dish, gather these key ingredients. Remember to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements!
- Flour Tortillas: Opt for soft, fresh flour tortillas, preferably taco-sized (about 6-inch diameter) to replicate the authentic handheld experience of the original Meximelt. These smaller tortillas were characteristic of Taco Bell’s dollar menu items.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) works best as it provides flavor without excessive grease. The key here is to break it down into very fine pieces, mimicking the texture of Taco Bell’s signature seasoned beef.
- Taco Seasoning: A good quality taco seasoning is crucial for that authentic Taco Bell flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or elevate your Meximelt with our flavorful Homemade Taco Seasoning for a truly customizable taste.
- Mexican Cheese Blend: A pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend (typically a mix of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Asadero, and Queso Blanco) melts beautifully and delivers that classic cheesy goodness. Feel free to use your favorite blend or even a simple Monterey Jack.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes are a core component of the “Fresco” salsa. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Onion: Finely chopped white or yellow onion adds a crisp, pungent kick to the homemade pico de gallo.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for brightening the flavors of the pico de gallo and adding that signature zesty tang.
- Jalapeno: While the exact composition of Taco Bell’s original Fresco salsa is debated, incorporating a finely minced jalapeno (seeded for less heat, or with seeds for a spicier kick) adds a wonderful layer of freshness and a touch of heat to our homemade version. We believe good homemade salsa or Pico de Gallo simply isn’t complete without it!
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro brings a distinctive, herbaceous aroma and flavor that ties all the salsa ingredients together beautifully. Don’t skip it for authentic taste!
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Beef Meximelts
Recreating the Taco Bell Meximelt is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these simple steps to bring this beloved classic back to life in your kitchen:
- Prepare the Fresh Pico de Gallo: In a medium bowl, combine your finely diced tomatoes, chopped onion, freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeno. A pinch of salt will enhance the flavors. Gently mix these ingredients until well combined. This fresh salsa will be the vibrant “Fresco” element of your Meximelt. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it while you prepare the other components, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the Seasoned Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into very small, fine pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula, until it’s thoroughly browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Once drained, return the beef to the heat and stir in your chosen taco seasoning along with the recommended amount of water (usually indicated on the seasoning packet). Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is fully coated and flavorful. If using our Homemade Taco Seasoning, follow its specific liquid instructions.
- Warm the Flour Tortillas: Gently warm your taco-sized flour tortillas. This step is crucial to prevent them from cracking and make them pliable and easy to roll. You can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 15-20 seconds (for a stack of 6-8 tortillas), or warm them individually in a dry skillet over low heat for a few seconds per side until soft.
- Assemble Your Meximelts: Lay a warm tortilla flat. Generously sprinkle a portion of the shredded Mexican cheese blend onto the center of the tortilla. Spoon a serving of the seasoned ground beef over the cheese. Finish with a dollop of your freshly prepared pico de gallo. Carefully fold in two opposite sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from one of the open ends, creating a compact, burrito-like shape. Ensure the filling is snugly enclosed.
- Melt the Cheese to Perfection: To achieve that signature gooey, melted cheese core without grilling the exterior, wrap each assembled Meximelt individually in a damp paper towel. Place one or two wrapped Meximelts on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for approximately 20-30 seconds, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and the entire Meximelt is warmed through.
- Serve Immediately: Unwrap your perfectly melted Meximelts and serve them while they are still warm and the cheese is delightfully gooey. These are best enjoyed fresh!
Pro Tips for an Authentic Taco Bell Meximelt Experience
To ensure your homemade Meximelts taste as close to the original Taco Bell version as possible, consider these expert tips and tricks:
- Achieve the Signature Beef Texture: One of the hallmarks of Taco Bell’s ground beef is its incredibly fine texture. When browning your ground beef, don’t just break it into chunks. Use a wooden spoon, a sturdy spatula, or even a specialized meat chopper to continuously break the meat apart into very small, almost crumbly pieces. This extra effort will make a significant difference in mimicking the mouthfeel of the original.
- Embrace the Taco-Sized Tortillas: The classic Meximelt was a smaller, dollar-menu-style item. Using taco-sized flour tortillas (typically 6 inches in diameter) is essential for replicating this authentic scale. While you can certainly use larger tortillas for a heartier meal, sticking to the smaller size keeps them perfectly handheld and true to the original concept.
- Always Warm Your Tortillas: Cold tortillas are prone to cracking and tearing when folded or rolled. Always warm your flour tortillas before assembly. Wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-20 seconds, or quickly heating them in a dry skillet, makes them pliable, easy to work with, and ensures they stay intact as you create your Meximelts.
- Prioritize Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: The “Fresco” salsa in the original Meximelt was known for its fresh, chunky texture, not a smooth, restaurant-style blended salsa. This means using a homemade pico de gallo or a good quality store-bought fresh salsa is key. Our recipe provides instructions for a simple homemade pico de gallo that captures this freshness perfectly, emphasizing diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a vibrant, authentic flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack your Meximelts with lots of filling, remember they were modestly portioned. Overfilling can make them difficult to roll and messy to eat. Stick to reasonable amounts of beef, cheese, and pico de gallo to maintain the integrity of the roll.
- Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in your pico de gallo to suit your preference. For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes. For more kick, leave some or all of them in. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef for an extra layer of spice.
- Consider Your Cheese Choice: While a Mexican cheese blend is recommended, experimenting with different cheeses like Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or a blend of Oaxaca and Monterey Jack can enhance the flavor profile to your liking. The goal is gooey, melty cheese!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Meximelts
Just like any delightful Mexican-inspired dish, Meximelts are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of classic side dishes. Enhance your meal with these delicious accompaniments:
- Rice Dishes: A side of perfectly cooked rice is always a welcome addition. Try our flavorful Instant Pot Spanish Rice for a traditional Mexican touch, or opt for a light and zesty Cilantro Lime Rice to cut through the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Beans: Creamy Refried Beans are a staple side that adds substance and a comforting texture to your meal. You can also serve simple black beans seasoned with a little cumin and garlic.
- Guacamole: A generous scoop of fresh Guacamole offers a creamy, avocado-rich contrast that is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Extra Salsa: While the Meximelt has salsa inside, having an extra bowl of your favorite salsa for dipping can take the experience to the next level. Our Chili’s Salsa Recipe is a fantastic choice for a restaurant-quality dip.
- Chips and Queso: For a true indulgence, serve your Meximelts alongside a bowl of warm, gooey queso and a pile of crispy tortilla chips.
- Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the Meximelt.
Storing and Reheating Your Meximelts
Don’t worry if you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time – these homemade Meximelts store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for quick meals or snacks!
Refrigeration: If your Meximelts are already wrapped, simply place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, remove the plastic wrap (if applicable), wrap in a damp paper towel, and microwave for about 45-60 seconds, or until heated through and the cheese is melted again. You can also gently warm them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warm, though this may make the tortilla slightly crispier.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment: Believe it or not, Meximelts are excellent for freezing! This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option for meal prep. After assembling the Meximelts (but before microwaving to melt the cheese), wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil to ensure they are completely airtight and protected from freezer burn. Place all your wrapped Meximelts into a freezer-safe plastic bag or container. They will last in the freezer for up to 3-6 months.
To Reheat from Frozen: For the best results, it’s recommended to thaw the frozen Meximelts in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, remove all wrapping, then wrap the Meximelt in a damp paper towel and microwave for 45-60 seconds, or until hot and the cheese is melted. You can also microwave them directly from frozen, increasing the microwave time to 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to ensure even heating. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the tortilla tough.
Explore More Delicious Mexican-Inspired Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed recreating the Taco Bell Meximelt, you’re sure to love these other fantastic Mexican and Tex-Mex recipes. Expand your culinary repertoire with these family favorites:
- Hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Crispy Air Fryer Tacos
- Flavorful Chipotle Chicken Bowls
- One-Pan Mexican Rice Skillet
- The Ultimate Crunchwrap Supreme
- Delicious Wet Burrito
- Comforting Chile Relleno Casserole
- Unique and Tasty Potato Tacos
Taco Bell Meximelts
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 6 taco sized flour tortillas
- 2 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend
- 3/4 cup Pico de Gallo
For the Homemade Pico de Gallo
- 1 cup tomato, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/2 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
Instructions
- To prepare the pico de gallo, gently toss all of the listed ingredients together in a medium bowl until well combined. Cover the bowl and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble your Meximelts, allowing the flavors to meld.1 cup tomato, 2 Tablespoons onion, 1 Tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 Tablespoon chopped cilantro, 1/2 jalapeno
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon or a meat chopper to break it into very small, fine pieces, mimicking the authentic Taco Bell texture. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and the amount of water specified on the seasoning package. Simmer for a few minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the beef is thoroughly coated and fragrant.1 pound ground beef, 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- Warm the flour tortillas to make them pliable and prevent cracking during assembly. You can wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for about 20-30 seconds (for a stack of 6), or until they are soft and easy to handle.6 taco sized flour tortillas
- To assemble, lay a warm tortilla flat. Sprinkle a generous portion of the Mexican shredded cheese blend onto the center. Top with a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef, followed by some of the fresh pico de gallo. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from one end, creating a compact, burrito-like shape.2 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend, 3/4 cup Pico de Gallo
- For that perfect melted cheese, wrap each assembled Meximelt in a damp paper towel. Microwave each wrapped Meximelt for approximately 20-30 seconds (or slightly longer for multiple), until the cheese is wonderfully gooey and the entire Meximelt is hot.
- Remove from the microwave and serve your delicious copycat Taco Bell Meximelts immediately while warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.
Additional Recipe Details
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