Mexican Lasagna is a delicious fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting layers of a classic lasagna. Instead of pasta, this dish uses tortillas layered with seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and zesty salsa, creating a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy layering make this a go-to weeknight meal.
- Loaded with Flavor: A perfect mix of spices, cheese, and salsa for a bold, satisfying bite.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, switch up proteins, or add extra veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef (or turkey)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Taco seasoning
- Black beans (drained and rinsed)
- Corn (optional)
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- Salsa
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Mexican blend cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add Seasoning & Veggies: Stir in diced onion, garlic, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer the Lasagna: In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of salsa, then place tortillas on top. Add a layer of beef mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Make It Spicier: Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
- Protein Swap: Use shredded chicken or ground turkey instead of beef.
- Extra Creamy: Add a layer of refried beans or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in portions.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes! Corn tortillas add a more traditional Mexican flavor and hold up well in layers.
How can I prevent the lasagna from being soggy?
Use thick tortillas, drain excess liquid from the beef mixture, and bake uncovered for the last few minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I serve with Mexican Lasagna?
Pair it with a side of guacamole, a fresh salad, or Spanish rice.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use corn tortillas and double-check that your taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Add extra cheese between layers for an ultra-cheesy lasagna.
How do I make it healthier?
Use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat tortillas.
What’s the best way to cut the lasagna?
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes! Or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
Can I use green sauce instead of red salsa?
Yes! Green enchilada sauce or salsa verde gives a tasty twist.
Conclusion
Mexican Lasagna is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the best of both worlds—layers of cheesy, savory goodness with classic Mexican ingredients. Whether you make it spicy, creamy, or veggie-packed, it’s a guaranteed hit for any meal. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish with your favorite toppings!
PrintMexican Lasagna
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and cheesy Mexican-inspired casserole made with layers of tortillas, seasoned beef, beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner!
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (optional)
For Layering:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (optional for spice)
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
For Topping:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Season & Simmer – Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, salsa, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Layers – In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Place two tortillas to cover the base. Add a layer of meat mixture, a sprinkle of cheese, and a drizzle of enchilada sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake – Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve & Enjoy – Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and diced tomatoes.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use hot enchilada sauce or add extra jalapeños.
- Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or a vegetarian mix of mushrooms and extra beans.
- Serve with guacamole and tortilla chips on the side!
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