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Recreate the Magic: The Ultimate Homemade Taco Bell Meximelt Copycat Recipe

Do you ever find yourself craving that distinctive, comforting taste of a Taco Bell Meximelt, only to remember it’s no longer on the menu? For countless fans, the discontinuation of this beloved item left a significant void. But what if you could bring back that classic flavor right to your own kitchen? This meticulously crafted copycat recipe not only resurrects the iconic Meximelt but elevates it with fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering a nostalgic and incredibly satisfying experience. Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef, a luscious blend of melty cheese, and vibrant, fresh pico de gallo, all lovingly encased in a soft flour tortilla. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane, making it the ideal addition to your next Taco Tuesday or any occasion that calls for a taste of fast-food nostalgia, made better at home.

A perfectly assembled homemade Taco Bell Meximelt, showcasing the soft tortilla and savory filling.

My passion for Mexican cuisine runs deep, so much so that when asked about my favorite food, there’s never a moment of hesitation. It’s always been Mexican food, through and through. My kitchen often transforms into a vibrant cantina, brimming with the aroma of spices and fresh ingredients. My website is filled with an array of mouthwatering Mexican recipes, and we frequently enjoy dining out at our favorite Mexican restaurants. And yes, I’ll happily confess that Taco Bell holds a special place in my heart as a delightful guilty pleasure. Crafting these homemade Meximelts brings back those cherished flavors in a way that truly earns two thumbs up from me every single time. I’m absolutely thrilled to share this amazing recipe with you!

The Return of a Legend: Crafting Your Own Taco Bell Meximelt Copycat

The Meximelt was more than just a menu item; it was a cultural icon introduced by Taco Bell in the 1980s. A delightful fusion that blurred the lines between a soft taco and a quesadilla, it quickly captured the hearts of countless diners. Its unique combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh pico de gallo made it an irresistible choice for a quick, flavorful bite. However, to the dismay of many loyal fans, the Meximelt vanished from the menu in 2019 as part of a broader menu simplification initiative. This disappearance left a significant void, sparking frequent calls for its return.

Fortunately, the spirit of the Meximelt lives on through this carefully developed copycat recipe. We’ve meticulously recreated this specialty item, focusing on fresher, higher-quality ingredients that ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. Imagine the perfect harmony of textures and tastes, made right in your home kitchen, exactly how you remember it, but perhaps even better. This recipe isn’t just about replicating a dish; it’s about reviving a cherished culinary memory and making it accessible for your whole family to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

If you’re a fan of bringing restaurant favorites home, you’ll also love our Copycat Wendy’s Taco Salad and our incredibly delicious Qdoba’s Queso recipes. They are perfect companions for a homemade fast-food feast!

A close-up shot of a plate of homemade Copycat Taco Bell Meximelts, ready to be enjoyed.

Why Choose a Homemade Meximelt? Freshness, Customization, and Flavor!

While the original Taco Bell Meximelt certainly hit the spot, crafting your own version at home offers a multitude of benefits that truly enhance the experience. Beyond the pure satisfaction of recreating a beloved dish, homemade Meximelts allow for unparalleled control over ingredients and preparation. You get to select the freshest produce for your pico de gallo, choose high-quality lean ground beef, and opt for your favorite type of cheese, ensuring a superior flavor and texture.

The beauty of this copycat version lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize. The original Meximelt was a perfect hybrid: the comforting softness of a taco met the gooey, cheesy delight of a quesadilla. Our copycat captures this essence perfectly – a harmonious blend of perfectly seasoned ground beef, richly melted cheese, and the bright, zesty kick of fresh pico de gallo, all embraced by a gently steamed flour tortilla. Now, you can savor these delectable creations whenever you desire, tailored precisely to your taste preferences, and made with the love only a home-cooked meal can provide.

A selection of Meximelt ingredients laid out, including ground beef, tortillas, cheese, and pico de gallo.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Taco Bell Meximelt

Creating these sensational Meximelts requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. The key is in the quality and how each component contributes to that signature flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Taco Bell classic to life in your kitchen. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the printable recipe card below.

Ground Beef: We recommend lean ground beef for optimal flavor and texture. For a lighter option, feel free to substitute with ground turkey without compromising much on taste.
Taco Seasoning: A good quality taco seasoning is crucial for that authentic Taco Bell beef flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought packet or elevate your Meximelts with a homemade taco seasoning blend for an extra layer of flavor.
Water: Essential for helping the taco seasoning distribute evenly through the ground beef, creating a moist and flavorful filling.
Flour Tortillas: Large, “burrito-sized” flour tortillas are ideal. Their generous size allows for proper filling and rolling, ensuring a satisfying Meximelt experience.
Shredded Cheese: Classic cheddar cheese delivers that signature gooey, melty goodness. For those who enjoy a little heat, pepper jack cheese makes an excellent spicy alternative. A Mexican blend also works wonderfully.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh, vibrant salsa is what truly sets a Meximelt apart. While store-bought pico de gallo works in a pinch, making your own homemade pico de gallo will undoubtedly offer a fresher, more robust flavor that makes all the difference.

How to Make Homemade Taco Bell Meximelts: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Bringing back the Meximelt is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these easy steps to assemble your delicious copycat creations.

Ground beef browning in a skillet, ready for seasoning.

First, brown your ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it cooks, use a potato masher or a meat chopper to break it down into super fine crumbles. This is key to achieving that signature Taco Bell texture. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease thoroughly, then return the finely crumbled meat to the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, allowing the mixture to simmer until the water has cooked into the meat and the seasoning is well absorbed. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Remove the seasoned beef from the heat and set aside.

Finely crumbled, seasoned ground beef in a skillet.

Next, prepare your tortillas. To make them soft, pliable, and easy to roll without tearing, stack them between a couple of damp paper towels. Microwave them for about 15-20 seconds. This steaming method ensures they are perfectly warmed and flexible.

Tortillas layered with cheese, seasoned beef, and pico de gallo.

Now it’s time to assemble your Meximelts. Lay out each warm flour tortilla. Start by layering a portion of your shredded cheese, followed by a generous scoop of the seasoned ground beef. Next, add a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo, and then top with a final sprinkle of cheese. This layering ensures gooey cheese in every bite.

A rolled homemade Meximelt, ready for melting the cheese.

Carefully tuck in the ends of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, just like you would a burrito. To achieve that perfect melty interior, wrap each assembled Meximelt individually in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds. This quick burst of heat steams the tortilla and melts the cheese into a gooey, irresistible filling. Serve your homemade Meximelts hot and enjoy the authentic flavors you’ve recreated!

For storing leftovers, place any remaining Meximelts in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for 3-4 days. Due to the fresh pico de gallo, freezing these is not recommended as the texture may suffer upon thawing. Reheat them quickly in the microwave or for a crisper exterior, pop them in an air fryer or a warm skillet for a few minutes until heated through.

A stack of perfectly rolled and melted homemade Meximelts.

Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

If you’re as excited about this Copycat Taco Bell Meximelts recipe as we are, don’t forget to save it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever those Meximelt cravings strike. Share the joy of bringing this classic back to life!

A Pinterest-ready image of homemade Meximelts with a 'Pin It' call to action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Taco Bell Meximelts

Got questions about this iconic Taco Bell creation? We’ve got answers!

What exactly is a Meximelt? A Meximelt was a unique and incredibly popular Taco Bell menu item. It featured a harmonious blend of seasoned ground beef, a generous layer of melted cheese, and fresh pico de gallo, all carefully wrapped in a soft, steamed flour tortilla. It was often described as a perfect hybrid between a soft taco and a quesadilla.
Why did Taco Bell decide to discontinue the Meximelt? Taco Bell made the decision to discontinue the Meximelt in 2019. This move was part of a larger menu simplification effort aimed at streamlining operations and introducing new items. While the company stated it was to improve efficiency, it left many loyal fans profoundly disappointed by the loss of their favorite item.
What were the key ingredients in the original Meximelt? The original Taco Bell Meximelt consisted of finely seasoned ground beef, a three-cheese blend (typically cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack), and fresh pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro) wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
When was the Meximelt first introduced to the Taco Bell menu? The Meximelt made its debut on Taco Bell’s menu in the late 1980s. It quickly gained a dedicated following and remained a popular choice for approximately three decades before its discontinuation.
Can I prepare Meximelts ahead of time? You can prepare the seasoned ground beef and pico de gallo in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the Meximelts just before you plan to eat them to ensure the freshest taste and best texture, especially with the pico de gallo.
How should I store leftover Meximelts? Store any leftover Meximelts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. We don’t recommend freezing them due to the fresh pico de gallo, which can become watery and lose its texture upon thawing.
What’s the best way to reheat Meximelts? For a quick reheat, wrap a Meximelt in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-30 seconds until warmed through and the cheese is melted. For a slightly crispy exterior, reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until golden and hot.

A stack of perfectly cooked homemade Meximelts on a wooden surface.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Homemade Meximelts

Achieve Meximelt perfection with these valuable tips and tricks:

Finely Crumble Your Beef: To truly replicate the Taco Bell taco meat, use a meat chopper or a potato masher while browning your ground beef. This helps achieve those super fine, uniform crumbles that soak up the seasoning perfectly.
Warm Tortillas for Flexibility: Always warm your flour tortillas before filling and rolling. Placing them between damp paper towels and microwaving for a few seconds makes them pliable, preventing cracks and tears during assembly.
For a Crispy Exterior: If you prefer a bit of crunch, after assembling your Meximelt, place it in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until the tortilla is golden and slightly crispy. This adds a delightful textural contrast.
Don’t Overfill: While tempting, overfilling your tortillas can make them difficult to roll and messy to eat. Stick to the recommended portions for a balanced and tidy Meximelt.
Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, opt for freshly shredded cheese over pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.

Taco Bell Mexican Pizza on tan colored plate

More Delicious Recipes to Love

What’s your ultimate Taco Bell craving? Beyond the Meximelt, I’m a huge fan of the Mexican Pizza (pictured above), and of course, you can’t beat a classic Taco Bell Enchirito, the sweet crunch of Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists, a satisfying Cheesy Gordita Crunch, or loaded Nachos Supreme! Feeling adventurous with sauces? Try these incredible Taco Bell copycat recipes: Spicy Ranchero Sauce and Quesadilla Sauce.

Craving other fast food favorites made at home? Dive into these fantastic copycat versions: indulge in McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish and Big Macs, savor the flavor of Copycat Hooters Wings, cool down with Dairy Queen Buster Bars, or create an Olive Garden Night at Home complete with Zuppa Toscana, salad, and breadsticks. For a southern comfort feast, try this KFC chicken and coleslaw. Discover all my incredible Restaurant Copycat recipes here.

And if it’s Mexican food you truly crave (like me, always!), be sure to give these delightful dishes a try: flavorful Double Decker Tacos, rich Cheesy Beef Enchiladas, crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos, hearty Crockpot Shredded Beef Burritos, and of course, this refreshing Copycat El Bee’s Margarita to wash it all down! Explore all of my diverse Mexican Recipes here.

A final, appealing shot of the homemade Taco Bell Meximelts.

Indulge in Homemade Meximelt Perfection

This perfect copycat recipe truly brings all the incredible flavors you remember from the original Taco Bell Meximelt right into your kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into various meal plans and celebrations. Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, planning an exciting meal for your next Taco Tuesday, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at a Cinco de Mayo celebration, this copycat beef Meximelt recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs to everyone who takes a bite. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate blend of seasoned meat, gooey cheese, and fresh salsa, all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla – pure comfort and flavor in every single bite!

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Close up of Copy Cat Taco Bell Meximelts stacked on a light surface.

Print Recipe

Homemade Taco Bell Meximelts

Miss those iconic Meximelts from Taco Bell? This homemade copycat version brings back the nostalgia using simple ingredients right from your kitchen. With seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh pico de gallo wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, these make the perfect addition to your Taco Tuesday!

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Course: Restaurant Copy Cat Recipes

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: Copycat, ground beef, taco bell, taco bell copy cat, tortillas

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 549 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
4 large flour tortillas (burrito sized)
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pico de gallo salsa (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Brown and finely crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease thoroughly and then return the meat to the skillet.
Add water and taco seasoning. Mash the meat to super fine crumbles using a potato masher, ensuring a consistent texture.
Simmer the taco meat for about 5-10 minutes, or until the water has fully cooked into the meat and the seasoning is well absorbed. Remove from heat.
Prepare your tortillas: Place a couple of damp paper towels on the counter, stack your 4 tortillas on top, and then place a couple more damp paper towels over them. Microwave for about 15-20 seconds to soften them and make them pliable and easy to work with.
Fill each tortilla: Start by layering 1/8th of the cheese, then ¼ of the seasoned meat, followed by ¼ of the pico de gallo, and finally, another 1/8th of the cheese.
Tuck in the ends and roll each tortilla tightly like a burrito.
Wrap each assembled Meximelt in a damp paper towel. Microwave for about 15 seconds to steam the outside and melt the cheese inside until gooey.
Serve hot immediately and enjoy!

Notes

With the fresh pico de gallo, I don’t recommend freezing these Meximelts. They will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or use an air fryer or skillet for a crisper finish.

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