Taco Bell Meximelt Copycat The Complete Meximelt Recipe with Taco Meat and Jack Cheese

the Taco Bell Meximelt

The Taco Bell Meximelt is one of those rare fast food items that managed to build a cult following over the years. Originally launched as a cross between a soft taco and a quesadilla, the Meximelt featured seasoned ground beef, melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla. Its simplicity was part of its charm, and for many Taco Bell fans, it became a late-night go-to or comfort food classic.

Despite its popularity, Taco Bell quietly discontinued the Meximelt in 2019, sparking disappointment and nostalgia among fans. Since then, the internet has become flooded with copycat recipes, with people trying to recreate that signature blend of melted cheese, taco meat, and steamy tortilla at home. And that’s exactly what this guide aims to help you do — not just replicate it, but perfect it.

To bring this classic back to your kitchen, we’ll walk you through how to make the complete Taco Bell Meximelt copycat recipe, complete with homemade taco seasoning that captures the exact flavor you remember. If you’ve ever explored Taco Bell history on Wikipedia, you’ll see how the brand has evolved over time, often rotating out cult favorites like this one. Thankfully, recreating the Meximelt is easier than you think. You’ll find that the ingredients — like ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese — are likely already in your kitchen.

In the following sections, we’ll detail each step, including how to mix your own homemade Taco Bell seasoning, inspired by blends like this Pinterest DIY seasoning pin, to give your copycat version the most authentic flavor possible. Whether you’re reliving fast food nostalgia or just want a new comfort food recipe, this guide has you covered.

What Is a Meximelt?

The Meximelt was a standout item on Taco Bell’s menu for decades, known for its simple yet satisfying combination of flavors. Think of it as the midpoint between a cheesy quesadilla and a classic soft taco. At its core, the Meximelt features seasoned taco meat, a melted blend of Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese, topped with freshly diced tomatoes and onions, all wrapped tightly in a warm flour tortilla.

What made the Meximelt so appealing was its minimalist structure paired with that unmistakable Taco Bell flavor. It was melty, meaty, and mildly spiced — the kind of snack that hit the spot without being too heavy or over-complicated. The warm, soft texture of the tortilla, combined with gooey cheese and savory ground beef, made it comforting and craveable.

Unlike the Crunchwrap Supreme or Mexican Pizza, which are layered and crisped, the Meximelt was all about softness and melt. That makes it closer in nature to items like the quesadilla or soft taco, but with a more indulgent cheese pull and a compact, burrito-like wrap style. It was often overlooked by new customers but fiercely defended by longtime fans who appreciated its simplicity.

Interestingly, the Monterey Jack cheese used in the Meximelt wasn’t always standard on Taco Bell’s other items, which made its flavor and texture unique. Learn more about this cheese’s creamy characteristics from Wikipedia’s Monterey Jack entry, and you’ll understand why it plays such a vital role in recreating the original taste.

Today, with Taco Bell no longer offering it on the menu, the only way to enjoy a Meximelt is by making your own — and the good news is, with a few key tips and the right taco seasoning, you can get it surprisingly close to the original. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic flavors or just love discovering Taco Bell-style recipes, this is one worth mastering.

this recipe

Ingredients Overview

To make the perfect Taco Bell Meximelt copycat, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to deliver that signature flavor and texture. Most of these are pantry staples, but it’s important to use the right combinations to truly replicate the original. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need, along with some optional swaps if you’re customizing for dietary needs or preferences.

Core Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – Use 80/20 for best flavor and texture. Learn more about its use in fast food from Wikipedia’s ground beef guide.
• 1 packet Taco Bell taco seasoning mix – Or use homemade seasoning (see Section 5) made with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for an authentic flavor.
• ¾ cup water – For mixing into the beef and seasoning for a saucy consistency.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and contrast to the mild Monterey Jack. More on this cheese here.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Essential for melt and creamy texture.
• ½ cup diced tomatoes – Adds freshness and a subtle acidity.
• ½ cup diced white onions – Brings a sharp, aromatic crunch.
• 8 small flour tortillas – Soft, pliable wraps that make the Meximelt foldable and handheld. For a deep dive, see Wikipedia’s tortilla article.

Optional Variations:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey, plant-based crumbles, or seasoned black beans for a vegetarian or leaner version.
• Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
• Add jalapeños or Taco Bell hot sauce for heat lovers.

If you’re meal prepping, consider doubling the beef and storing extra portions. This helps with making Mexican Pizza, soft tacos, or quesadillas later using the same flavorful base — just like this Pinterest board of cheesy Taco Bell recipes.

Having all your ingredients prepped before cooking makes the assembly smoother and keeps the tortillas from drying out. Now that everything is ready, you’re all set to start cooking the ultimate copycat Meximelt.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Copycat Meximelt

Recreating the Taco Bell Meximelt at home is fast, easy, and incredibly rewarding. This step-by-step guide shows you how to prepare the seasoned taco meat, assemble the melt, and achieve that signature soft texture and gooey cheese pull you remember.

Brown the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef.
• Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes.
• Drain excess grease to avoid soggy wraps. For more background on this core ingredient, explore ground beef on Wikipedia.

Season the Meat

• Stir in 1 packet of Taco Bell taco seasoning or your own homemade taco seasoning (see Section 5).
• Add ¾ cup water, stir well, and bring to a simmer.
• Let the mixture cook down for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and saucy.

Prepare the Tortillas

• Warm 8 small flour tortillas in a microwave or on a dry skillet until soft and pliable.
• This keeps them from cracking when you fold them.
• Tortillas play a critical role in this recipe’s texture — for more detail, check flour tortilla.

Assemble the Meximelts

• Lay out one tortilla at a time on a flat surface.
• Spoon a line of taco meat down the center.
• Add a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, about ¼ cup per melt.
• Top with diced tomatoes and onions for freshness.

Melt the Cheese

• Fold the tortilla burrito-style (bottom up, sides in, then roll).
• Wrap each Meximelt in a paper towel.
• Microwave for 20–30 seconds to melt the cheese and warm the entire wrap through.
• Alternatively, place them seam-side down on a skillet for 1–2 minutes, covered, to melt gently.

Serve Immediately

• Serve warm with Taco Bell hot sauce, nachos, or refried beans.
• These pair perfectly with other favorites like the Cheesy Gordita Crunch or Mexican Pizza if you’re building a full Taco Bell night at home.

Whether you’re a nostalgic fan or discovering it for the first time, this copycat Meximelt recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. For more inspiration, check out this Pinterest collection of copycat Meximelt ideas.

Homemade Taco Bell-Style Taco Seasoning

Skip the store-bought packet and whip up your own Taco Bell-style taco seasoning to take your Meximelt to the next level. This blend brings together bold, earthy flavors that closely match the fast-food original — with no preservatives or fillers.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chili powder (more about it here)
• 1 tsp ground cumin (cumin in Mexican cuisine)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions:

• Mix all spices in a small bowl until evenly combined.
• Use the entire batch for 1 lb of ground beef (as in this recipe).
• Store any extra in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

This homemade taco seasoning is incredibly versatile. Use it for Mexican Pizza, taco bowls, burritos, or even grilled veggies. For visual seasoning blends and inspiration, check out this popular Pinterest seasoning DIY pin.

Tips for Perfecting the Copycat Meximelt

Making the Meximelt at home means you can improve it in subtle but meaningful ways. Here are expert tips to help you get as close as possible to the original — or even better.

• Use steam to soften tortillas: Microwave the tortillas with a damp paper towel to make them ultra-pliable.
• Shred cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese straight from the block for best results.
• Melt gently: Use short microwave bursts or cover on a skillet for even, gooey melting without drying out the tortilla.
• Customize the spice: Adjust your seasoning blend if you want more heat or smokiness. Add chipotle powder or jalapeño flakes for extra punch.
• Wrap tightly: Like a burrito, fold bottom up first, then sides, then roll tightly. This keeps everything inside and melts the cheese uniformly.

For ideas on making multiple Taco Bell copycats with the same seasoned meat, visit this Pinterest Taco Bell recipe board.

Popular Variations of the Meximelt

The beauty of the Meximelt is that it’s endlessly customizable. You can make it spicy, vegetarian, or snack-sized. Here are a few delicious variations:

• Spicy Meximelt: Add pickled jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Veggie Meximelt: Replace the beef with seasoned black beans, refried beans, or plant-based crumbles. Still packed with flavor, especially with homemade seasoning.
• Extra cheesy Meximelt: Add a spoonful of queso dip or double the cheese blend.
• Mini Meximelts: Use street taco-size tortillas for bite-sized snacks or party appetizers.

These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also let you cater to different diets and preferences without sacrificing that Taco Bell-style flavor.

What to Serve with a Taco Bell Meximelt

While the Meximelt can stand on its own, it’s even better with flavorful sides and drinks. Here’s what pairs best with this cheesy wrap:

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy, tomato-seasoned rice balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and mild, these are a Taco Bell classic.
• Chips and Salsa or Guac: Add texture and freshness with crispy chips and cool dips.
• Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy, zesty contrast to the soft melt.
• Drinks: Try Horchata, Jarritos, or a homemade margarita for a complete meal.

These sides create a full fast food-style plate at home — a perfect Taco Bell night, minus the drive-thru.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy your Meximelt later, follow these simple steps to store and reheat it properly.

Storage:

• Wrap individually in foil or parchment and place in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating:

• For best results, microwave for 30–45 seconds, wrapped in a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Or heat in a covered skillet on low for 3–5 minutes until heated through.

Proper storage and reheating will keep your Meximelt tasting just as good as it did fresh.

Nutritional Breakdown (Estimation)

While exact values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a typical nutritional breakdown per serving for the Taco Bell Meximelt copycat.

• Calories: 330–400 per Meximelt
• Protein: 16–20g
• Fat: 18–22g
• Carbohydrates: 25–30g
• Fiber: 2–3g
• Sodium: 600–800mg

To make it lighter, use lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, or swap the tortilla for a whole wheat or low-carb version. Reducing cheese or meat portions can also help lower calorie and sodium intake.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why did Taco Bell discontinue the Meximelt?
Taco Bell removed the Meximelt in 2019 as part of a larger menu revamp. The decision was made to streamline operations and make space for newer items, despite its loyal fan base.

Is the Meximelt still available anywhere?
Officially, no. However, some Taco Bell locations may make a “secret menu” version if they still have the ingredients on hand. Otherwise, your best bet is making a copycat version at home.

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. While Monterey Jack is essential for authenticity, you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend cheese. Just ensure it melts well.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with seasoned lentils, black beans, Beyond Meat, or even refried beans for a satisfying vegetarian option.

How spicy is the Taco Bell seasoning?
The traditional seasoning is mild to medium. You can customize heat levels by adding chipotle, cayenne, or jalapeño to your homemade blend.

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