Beef Meximelt Cheesy Taco

Seasoned beef meximelts loaded with melty cheese and cool pico de gallo are the go-to weeknight fix when I want something delicious fast. This is my homemade answer to that cheesy taco craving with fewer steps and fresh ingredients.

I first whipped these up for a last-minute game night and could not believe how fast they disappeared My family started requesting them on repeat and they are now our shortcut to taco night

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: For hearty flavor and perfect filling look for beef that is at least ninety percent lean to avoid too much grease
• Taco seasoning: Gives all the signature bold taco flavor use your favorite packet or make your own with chili powder cumin and garlic
• Water: Helps blend the seasoning evenly into the beef and keeps it juicy
• Large flour tortillas: Go for soft burrito-size tortillas that steam up beautifully
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts into perfect gooeyness choose a mix with Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar for the best stretch
• Pico de gallo salsa: Brings freshness and a hint of heat get daily-made salsa in the produce section if possible

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up with a spoon until it is browned and crumbly then drain off any excess fat This step is the foundation for juicy taco meat

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the cooked beef add half a cup of water and mash the meat so the crumbs are fine Stir until everything is blended and the beef is well coated so every bite is flavorful

Simmer for Flavor:

Increase heat just so the mixture starts to bubble then lower to a simmer Let it cook for about five to ten minutes until the sauce thickens but is still juicy This step locks in the seasoning

Steam the Tortillas:

Wrap the stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel Place in the microwave for fifteen to twenty seconds until soft and flexible This makes them easy to fill and roll without tearing

Assemble the Meximelts:

Lay each tortilla flat and spread a generous amount of hot beef mixture in the center Add a heavy sprinkle of cheese and a spoonful of pico de gallo Roll each like a burrito tucking in the ends and wrapping tightly

Melt the Cheese:

Individually wrap each filled meximelt in a new damp paper towel and microwave for fifteen seconds This melds the cheese into the beef and makes the tortilla extra soft

Serve Hot:

Remove the paper towels and plate up the meximelts while still warm for the cheesiest best texture

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My sister still talks about the time we made these for her birthday movie night and every plate came back spotless

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days Store rolled meximelts in an airtight container and reheat wrapped in a moist paper towel for the best texture Freezing is possible but the pico can get watery so I suggest freezing without salsa then adding fresh when ready to eat

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for the beef Use any shredded cheese that melts well like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack If you do not have fresh pico use jarred salsa but drain off excess liquid first

Serving Suggestions

These pair perfectly with rice and beans or a simple salad Serve with sides of sour cream guacamole or sliced jalapeños for extra kick For a fun twist cut the meximelts in half and serve as a party snack platter

Cultural Context

Meximelts trace their flavor roots to Americanized Mexican fast food from the 80s and 90s While not traditional they capture the satisfying spirit of Tex-Mex with a gooey taco twist

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Try these once and they will become your shortcut taco night too You might have to double the recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese is best for this dish?

A Mexican cheese blend with Monterey Jack and Cheddar melts best for creamy texture and flavor.

→ Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Flour tortillas are preferred for softness, but corn tortillas can work for a different texture and taste.

→ How do I make the beef filling extra flavorful?

Simmer the beef mixture well with taco seasoning and let the water reduce to intensify the taste.

→ Is it possible to prepare these in advance?

You can assemble ahead and reheat in the microwave before serving for maximum convenience.

→ What toppings pair well with this meal?

Try adding sour cream, chopped jalapeños, or extra salsa for added freshness and zing.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the beef for seasoned plant-based crumbles or black beans for a hearty vegetarian twist.