Beef Meximelt Cheesy Taco

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Spice Level: Medium

Description

This Beef Meximelt Cheesy Taco is a delicious fusion of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty flavors wrapped in a soft tortilla. Inspired by Taco Bell’s classic Meximelt, this homemade version is even better with fresh ingredients and customizable spice levels. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun taco night!

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Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)

• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

• ½ cup water

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp paprika

For the Cheesy Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• ½ cup diced tomatoes

• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for extra heat)

For Assembly:

• 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)

• ½ cup sour cream (optional)

• ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).

5. Drain excess fat (if needed), then return to heat.

6. Stir in taco seasoning, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.

7. Pour in water and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Topping

1. In a bowl, mix cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

2. Add diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeños (if using).

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

2. Spoon beef filling onto each tortilla.

3. Top with cheese mixture, allowing the heat to slightly melt the cheese.

4. Add a dollop of sour cream and salsa if desired.

5. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve immediately while warm and cheesy!

• Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Tacos)

Notes:

• For a low-carb version, use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

• For a spicier kick, add extra jalapeños or hot sauce.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans.

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Final Thoughts

This Beef Meximelt Cheesy Taco is a crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and gooey cheese. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Try it once, and it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!