A method of forming dual interconnects in a magnetoresistive memory cell includes: providing an intermediate product including: a metallization layer including metallic lines; a magnetoresistive junction element conductively connected to a first of the metallic lines by a via through a first non-conductive layer; a metallic hard mask disposed on the magnetoresistive junction element; a second non-conductive layer above the first non-conductive layer in regions over the hard mask and a second of the metallic lines; a third non-conductive layer disposed above the hard mask; and a fourth non-conductive layer disposed on the third non-conductive layer. The method further includes partially opening first and second trenches to uncover the second non-conductive layer above the hard mask and second metallic line, respectively; fully opening the first and second trenches to uncover the hard mask and second metallic line, respectively; and filling the first and second trenches with conductive material.