Mexican Lasagna Recipe

If you love the layered goodness of traditional lasagna but want to try something with a little more kick, this Mexican Lasagna is the perfect solution! It’s a delicious, south-of-the-border twist on the Italian classic, made with layers of tortillas instead of pasta, seasoned ground beef, beans, salsa, cheese, and all your favorite Mexican flavors. This easy, family-friendly casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, and it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Keep reading for the full recipe, plus tips, substitutions, and variations to make it your own!

What is a Mexican Lasagna?

Mexican Lasagna, also known as Taco Lasagna or Tortilla Lasagna, is a layered casserole dish that replaces traditional lasagna noodles with soft flour or corn tortillas. It’s filled with seasoned ground beef or chicken, salsa, beans, and melted cheese, creating a flavorful and hearty meal with a Mexican flair. Like regular lasagna, it’s baked in the oven until bubbly and golden, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Let’s start by gathering the ingredients you’ll need for this bold and cheesy casserole.

Ingredients List for Mexican Lasagna

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty, layered Mexican lasagna:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained (or 1 cup frozen corn)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or substitute with 1 cup salsa)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel works great)
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy, depending on your preference)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend of cheese, divided)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
• 12 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
• Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create layers of cheesy, zesty goodness that will remind you of your favorite Mexican dishes like tacos or enchiladas, but with a lasagna twist!

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Mexican Lasagna is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Protein options: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for an easier option.
• Vegetarian version: For a meatless version, simply omit the ground meat and double up on the black beans, or use a mix of beans and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Tortilla options: You can use either flour or corn tortillas in this dish. Corn tortillas give a more authentic Mexican flavor, while flour tortillas create a softer, more lasagna-like texture.
• Cheese alternatives: Feel free to mix up the cheeses by using pepper jack, Colby, or queso fresco for a more authentic Mexican touch. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
• Add heat: If you like things spicy, use hot salsa, add jalapeños, or sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Now that you have your ingredients and ideas for variations, let’s dive into the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make a delicious Mexican Lasagna:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Seasoning and Fillings

Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the mixture looks too dry, you can add an extra ¼ cup of salsa or a splash of water.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesy Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will add a creamy, cheesy layer to the lasagna.

Step 6: Layer the Lasagna

In the greased baking dish, spread a small amount of the beef mixture (about ½ cup) on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, place a layer of tortillas over the meat mixture (you may need to tear some tortillas in half to fit). Spread about ⅓ of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of the sour cream and cheese mixture. Repeat these layers two more times (tortillas, beef mixture, cheese mixture).

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Finish the lasagna with a final layer of tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack (or mozzarella) evenly over the top.

Step 8: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

Step 9: Let It Rest and Garnish

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the layers to set. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.

How to Cook Mexican Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef and drain excess fat.
3. Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add taco seasoning, beans, corn, tomatoes, and salsa to the beef mixture and simmer.
5. Prepare the cheesy mixture with sour cream and cheese.
6. Layer the lasagna: tortillas, beef mixture, cheese mixture. Repeat.
7. Top with extra cheese and bake for 25 minutes covered, and 10-15 minutes uncovered.
8. Let it rest before garnishing with cilantro or green onions.

Let’s explore some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your Mexican Lasagna comes out perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the layers: Be mindful not to overfill the casserole with too much of the beef or cheese mixture in each layer. This could cause the lasagna to be too thick and messy when cutting.
• Not letting it rest: It’s important to let the lasagna rest after baking so the layers can set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Undercooking the tortillas: If using corn tortillas, make sure you cook the casserole long enough for the tortillas to soften fully. They should absorb some of the moisture from the filling and cheese.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Mexican Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with sides to enhance the meal and add a little variety to the table.

How to Serve Mexican Lasagna

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or Spanish rice to round out the meal.
• Add a side of refried beans or black beans for extra protein.
• Pair with a fresh green salad with avocado and a lime vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
• Add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on top of each slice for extra flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Mexican Lasagna

• Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeño slices for a colorful finish.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a pop of brightness to the dish.
• Present the lasagna in a cast iron skillet or a decorative baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.

Mexican Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezer-friendly: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use enchilada sauce instead of salsa?

Yes! Enchilada sauce can be used instead of salsa for a slightly different flavor profile. It will add a bit more moisture, so adjust the layers accordingly.

Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?

Yes, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make the dish gluten-free. Be sure to check that your taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes to the layers for extra nutrition and texture.

Conclusion

This Mexican Lasagna is a fun, flavorful twist on the classic lasagna recipe. With layers of tortillas, seasoned ground beef, beans, salsa, and cheese, it’s a zesty, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving some Mexican comfort food. Whether you customize it with extra veggies, make it vegetarian, or freeze it for later, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the bold flavors of Mexico in every bite!

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