Easy Mexican Lasagna Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, this easy Mexican lasagna recipe is a sure winner. Infused with authentic Mexican flavors, this dish combines layers of tortillas, seasoned meat, and melty cheese to create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Growing up, Sunday dinners were always a big deal in our home, and my mother’s inventive spirit often led us to exciting culinary adventures. This Mexican spin on classic lasagna quickly became a family favorite. The blend of spices and hearty ingredients made it a staple that we all looked forward to, creating fond memories that I cherish to this day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate fusion of flavors, bringing together the best of Italian and Mexican cuisines. It is perfect for a quick family dinner and can be made ahead of time to simplify your meal planning. For those who crave variety, the use of tortillas instead of noodles makes it a standout dish that’s both unique and comforting.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. Feel free to use ground beef, chicken, or even turkey for the protein component. For a vegetarian version, black beans work wonderfully. Ensure you have a good blend of Mexican cheeses for the perfect melt. Fresh herbs and quality spices like cumin and paprika will elevate the flavors significantly.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add your choice of ground meat and cook until browned. Mix in taco seasoning and adjust for taste.

Step 2

In a separate pan, lightly fry tortillas to prevent sogginess later. This step ensures they maintain a pleasant texture in the lasagna.

Step 3

Layer the bottom of a baking dish with fried tortillas. Add a layer of meat, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and a layer of salsa.

Step 4

Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of cheese and jalapeños for added heat.

Step 5

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, cover the dish with aluminum foil or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap individual portions tightly, ensuring minimal air exposure. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.

Variations & Substitutions

Tweak this recipe to suit dietary preferences by using gluten-free tortillas or dairy-free cheese for those with sensitivities. For an extra punch of flavor, incorporate roasted peppers or corn. Adding a dash of lime before serving gives it a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican lasagna is ideal for casual gatherings or potlucks. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a side of guacamole for a complete meal. It also makes a great leftover lunch option that will make your coworkers green with envy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply swap out the meat for a mixture of black beans, kidney beans, or even lentils to maintain the hearty texture and flavor profile. Season the beans with the same spices used for the meat to keep the essence of the dish intact.

What type of cheese should I use? Opt for a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and Monterey Jack or pre-blended Mexican cheese mixes. These cheeses melt nicely and provide the creamy, gooey texture that makes this dish irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a little smoked gouda for extra depth.

Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Assemble the lasagna up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it into the oven and adjust the cook time if necessary to ensure it’s well-heated throughout.

Easy Mexican Lasagna Recipe

This delicious Mexican lasagna is a spicy twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lbs ground beef
• ▢ 1 cup chopped onion about 1 medium onion
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 2 tbsp taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
• ▢ 1.5 cups salsa
• ▢ 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
• ▢ 15 oz corn drained
• ▢ 9 pieces corn tortillas
• ▢ 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese cheddar or your choice
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 0.25 cup chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
• Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Stir in taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes.
• In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer 3 corn tortillas, half the meat mixture, and 1 cup of cheese. Repeat layers once more.
• Top with remaining tortillas, spread sour cream over tortillas, and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
• Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Notes

You can customize this dish with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or avocado slices. Enjoy!