The Overachiever Taco from Moe's Southwest Grill features a hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and zesty Southwest sauce, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla, delivering a bold and satisfying burst of flavors in every bite.
Equipments
- Grill or stovetop
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Spatula
- Cheese grater
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle or squeeze bottle (for sauce)
- Taco warmer or microwave
- Serving tongs
- Serving plates/trays
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Southwest sauce
- 8 soft flour tortillas
Ground beef is the primary protein in the Overachiever Taco, so using fresh, high-quality meat will enhance the flavor significantly. Taco seasoning blends vary in salt and spice levels, so adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. Fresh shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes add a crisp, refreshing texture, which balances the richness of the cheddar cheese and Southwest sauce. Soft flour tortillas should be warmed before assembling to prevent tearing and ensure a pleasant, pliable bite. When recreating the Overachiever Taco from Moe's Southwest Grill copycat menu, your attention to ingredient freshness and proper seasoning will deliver an authentic and satisfying taco experience.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or stovetop.
- Place skillet or sauté pan on heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet.
- Cook ground beef, breaking apart with spatula.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over beef.
- Mix well; cook until beef is browned.
- Grate cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- Wash and dry lettuce and tomatoes.
- Shred lettuce on cutting board with chef’s knife.
- Dice tomatoes using chef’s knife.
- Place shredded lettuce in a mixing bowl.
- Place diced tomatoes in a separate bowl.
- Place shredded cheese in a separate bowl.
- Pour Southwest sauce into ladle or squeeze bottle.
- Warm flour tortillas using taco warmer or microwave.
- Lay tortillas flat on serving plates/trays.
- Spoon cooked beef onto each tortilla.
- Add shredded lettuce on top of beef.
- Sprinkle diced tomatoes over lettuce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over tomatoes.
- Drizzle Southwest sauce over toppings.
- Fold tortillas if desired.
- Use serving tongs to arrange finished tacos.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Overachiever Taco from Moe's Southwest Grill copycat menu combines seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and Southwest sauce in a soft flour tortilla. If ground beef is unavailable, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work well and can reduce cooking time. Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce offer a crisp alternative to shredded lettuce without altering texture too much. You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of Southwest sauce or substituting with a milder creamy dressing if preferred. Use a warmed tortilla, either in a taco warmer or microwave, to ensure the best flavor and texture in your serving.
Tips
Ensure ground beef is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160degF (71degC) to prevent foodborne illness. When shredding lettuce and dicing tomatoes, dry them well to avoid making the tacos soggy. Warm the flour tortillas evenly using a taco warmer or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them soft and pliable. Your Southwest sauce can be adjusted according to your preferred spice level, so taste and modify before serving.
Nutritions
The Overachiever Taco provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to fuel your day. Ground beef supplies a rich source of protein and iron, supporting muscle maintenance and energy levels. Fresh lettuce and tomatoes add dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that promote immune health. The cheddar cheese contributes calcium for strong bones, while the Southwest sauce adds a flavorful kick without excessive calories.
Storage
Store leftover seasoned ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese separately in sealed containers to prevent moisture mixing and sogginess. Warm tortillas before serving to restore softness, and ensure your Southwest sauce is refrigerated in a tightly sealed jar for up to a week.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content while keeping protein high. Substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier kick or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to accommodate lactose intolerance. Replace Southwest sauce with a homemade chipotle mayo made from mayonnaise and chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky flavor boost. You can also warm tortillas on the grill for a slightly charred texture that enhances the overall taste experience.
Allergies
The Overachiever Taco contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and ingredients in the Southwest sauce that may include eggs, milk, or soy. The soft flour tortillas contain gluten, which can trigger reactions in individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. You should carefully check ingredient labels and consult with the restaurant if you have specific food allergies to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Overachiever Taco menu at Moe's Southwest Grill combines bold flavors with fresh ingredients like grilled chicken, seasoned beef, and vibrant veggies, offering a satisfying and customizable meal. Its balance of spice, zest, and texture creates a crave-worthy experience that appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. Making a copycat version at home lets you control ingredient quality and adjust flavors to your liking, ensuring a fresher and personalized alternative. You'll enjoy replicating the distinctive taste while saving money and tailoring each taco to your exact cravings.