This Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna is a tasty twist on the classic! Layers of fluffy tortillas, spicy taco meat, and gooey cheese make it a family favorite.
I love that it’s so simple to whip up, especially on busy nights. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and who doesn’t love extra cheese? You can’t go wrong with that! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for this recipe because it gives a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works great too. You can even use beans, mushrooms, or lentils for a vegetarian version!
Taco Seasoning: The packet seasoning is super convenient. But feel free to make your own mix with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for more flavor. It’s fun to customize it to your taste!
Black Beans: These add protein and a nice creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, try using pinto beans or kidney beans instead. They will still keep that hearty feel.
Salsa: I suggest using your favorite salsa, whether mild or hot, to really enhance the flavors. If you don’t have salsa, chopped tomatoes can work in a pinch, just add a bit of extra seasoning.
How Do I Layer the Lasagna Perfectly?
Layering is crucial for this lasagna to hold together beautifully. Here are some tips:
- Start with a small amount of meat mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Use tortillas to create a solid base. Make sure there’s coverage, no gaps!
- Alternate layers of meat and cheese to ensure a cheesy bite in every forkful.
- End with a generous layer of cheese on top for that gooey finish.
Let it cool slightly before slicing. This helps everything set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy making your layers just right!
Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced green chilies (mild or hot, per preference)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
For the Layers:
- 8-10 corn tortillas or flour tortillas, cut into quarters or halves
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1-2 medium tomatoes, diced (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake, so in total, you need about 50 minutes. Perfect for a quick family dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Meat:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Remember to break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep it less greasy.
2. Mix in the Seasonings:
Now, add your taco seasoning mix and a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give your meat a lovely flavor!
3. Combine the Filling Ingredients:
Add the black beans, diced green chilies, diced tomatoes, and salsa to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes so the flavors combine nicely.
4. Layer the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and start layering! Spoon a little meat mixture on the bottom of the dish. Then, layer some of the tortillas to cover the bottom evenly. Follow with more meat mixture (about half), and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top.
5. Continue Layering:
Repeat the layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, making sure to finish with a layer of cheese on top. The more cheese, the better, right?
6. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set a little better, making it easier to serve. Garnish with diced fresh tomatoes and chopped green onions. Feel free to add sour cream or avocado slices if you like!
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Mexican lasagna!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils, mushrooms, or additional beans in place of meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and cover it tightly with foil. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This lasagna pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, guacamole, or Mexican rice. A side of sour cream and tortilla chips could make for a delicious addition too!
