Whataburger Fan Favorites Return: Monterey Melt & Chicken Fajita Taco Recipes!
Whataburger enthusiasts, rejoice! Two beloved menu items have made their triumphant return: the Monterey Melt and the Chicken Fajita Taco. For those unfamiliar, or those simply craving a taste of these iconic Whataburger creations from the comfort of their own homes, this post provides detailed recipes and instructions for recreating these delicious dishes. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that brings the taste of Whataburger right to your kitchen.
## The Monterey Melt: A Cheesy, Beefy Masterpiece
The Monterey Melt is a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a hearty sandwich featuring two juicy beef patties, grilled onions, Monterey Jack cheese, creamy pepper sauce, and a toasted Texas toast. The combination is irresistible, and now, you can make it yourself.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Beef Patties:**
* 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for optimal flavor and juiciness)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* **For the Grilled Onions:**
* 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for caramelization)
* **For the Pepper Sauce:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice (from a jar of pickled jalapeños)
* 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapeños
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* **Other Ingredients:**
* 4 slices Texas toast (thick-cut bread)
* 4 slices Monterey Jack cheese
* Butter, for toasting the bread
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet or griddle
* Small bowl
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Beef Patties:** In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties. Divide the mixture into two equal portions and form them into patties that are slightly larger than the Texas toast slices, as they will shrink during cooking. Flatten the patties slightly to ensure even cooking.
2. **Grill the Onions:** Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper. If desired, add the sugar to help with caramelization. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Make the Pepper Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickled jalapeño juice, chopped pickled jalapeños, garlic powder, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. The sauce should have a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor.
4. **Cook the Beef Patties:** Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Add the beef patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last minute of cooking, place two slices of Monterey Jack cheese on each patty to allow the cheese to melt.
5. **Toast the Texas Toast:** While the patties are cooking, butter one side of each slice of Texas toast. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the bread slices, butter-side down, on the hot surface and toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. **Assemble the Monterey Melt:** Spread a generous amount of pepper sauce on one side of two slices of toasted Texas toast. Place one cheese-covered patty on each of the sauced slices. Top each patty with half of the grilled onions. Place the remaining slices of toasted Texas toast on top, butter-side up, to complete the sandwiches.
7. **Serve:** Cut the Monterey Melts in half and serve immediately. Enjoy the cheesy, beefy goodness!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Beef Blend:** Experiment with different ratios of ground beef. An 80/20 blend is a good starting point, but you can also use 85/15 or even a blend with a small amount of ground chuck for added flavor.
* **Onion Preparation:** For a sweeter flavor, caramelize the onions for a longer period of time, stirring frequently. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking for extra depth of flavor.
* **Pepper Sauce Heat:** Adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños and cayenne pepper in the pepper sauce to control the level of spiciness. You can also use a different type of hot sauce for a unique flavor.
* **Cheese Options:** While Monterey Jack is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, cheddar, or provolone.
* **Add-ins:** Consider adding other toppings like bacon, lettuce, tomato, or avocado for a more customized Monterey Melt.
## The Chicken Fajita Taco: A Tex-Mex Delight
The Chicken Fajita Taco is a flavorful and satisfying option featuring grilled chicken strips, sautéed onions and peppers, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. This recipe allows you to recreate this Tex-Mex favorite at home.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Chicken Fajita Filling:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
* 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
* 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* **For the Pico de Gallo:**
* 2 medium tomatoes, diced
* 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **Other Ingredients:**
* 6-8 flour tortillas (6-8 inch size)
* Shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese
* Sour cream (optional)
* Guacamole (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet or wok
* Small bowl
* Knife
* Cutting board
* Tongs
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pico de Gallo:** In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño pepper (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside. The pico de gallo can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
2. **Prepare the Chicken Fajita Filling:** Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken strips and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Sauté the Onions and Peppers:** In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the onions and peppers.
4. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave according to package instructions. This will make them more pliable and easier to fold.
5. **Assemble the Chicken Fajita Tacos:** Place a warm tortilla on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken fajita filling into the center of the tortilla. Top with shredded cheese and pico de gallo. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole, if desired.
6. **Serve:** Fold the tortilla in half or roll it up to create a taco. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chicken Marinade:** For even more flavor, marinate the chicken strips in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and oregano for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
* **Vegetable Variations:** Experiment with different types of bell peppers, such as poblano peppers or Anaheim peppers, for a different flavor profile. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the fajita filling.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper in the pico de gallo to control the level of spiciness. You can also use a different type of hot sauce for a unique flavor.
* **Cheese Options:** Use your favorite type of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
* **Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
* **Tortilla Options:** Use different types of tortillas, such as corn tortillas or whole wheat tortillas, for a different texture and flavor.
## Homemade Fajita Seasoning Recipe
If you prefer to make your own fajita seasoning, here’s a simple recipe:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 tablespoon cumin
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
This recipe makes approximately 1/4 cup of fajita seasoning. Use 1 tablespoon per pound of chicken or vegetables.
## Conclusion
With these detailed recipes and instructions, you can now recreate the delicious flavors of the Whataburger Monterey Melt and Chicken Fajita Taco in your own kitchen. Enjoy the satisfaction of making these iconic dishes from scratch and customizing them to your liking. Whether you’re a long-time Whataburger fan or simply looking for some new and exciting recipes to try, these dishes are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or skillet), and get ready to enjoy a taste of Whataburger at home!
These recipes are not exact replicas of the Whataburger menu items but are inspired interpretations designed to be made in a home kitchen. Experiment with ingredients and seasonings to create your own perfect version. Happy cooking!