This Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna is all about layers of goodness! With tortillas, beans, cheese, and spicy salsa, it’s a colorfully tasty twist on a classic meal.
You know what’s great? It’s super quick to prepare! I love how I can whip it up in no time and have everyone asking for seconds—and sometimes even thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives your lasagna a rich flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a meat substitute to get that hearty texture!
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth. If you don’t have any, shallots or leeks can work well too. If you’re avoiding onion, consider using onion powder for a milder flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is easy! Just mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. If you’re avoiding spices, you can use salt and pepper with a bit of lemon juice for a fresh taste.
Tortillas: I love corn tortillas, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to layer. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn or gluten-free tortillas.
Cheese: A Mexican blend is great for flavor, but you can mix your favorites. I love sharp cheddar for its punch! For a dairy-free version, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Layers in My Lasagna?
The layering is key to achieve that delightful cheesy goodness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by spreading 3 tortillas in a greased baking dish so they overlap slightly.
- Spoon one-third of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas evenly.
- Sprinkle one-third of the cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Cover with foil to keep it moist and prevent burning, then bake until everything is bubbly.
Letting it sit for a few minutes before slicing helps the layers hold together better, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your lasagna masterpiece!
Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium, depending on heat preference)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
For the Layers:
- 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, in under an hour, your Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna will be ready to serve! Perfect for a weeknight dinner with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your lasagna cooks evenly and is ready to serve when you assemble it.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your lasagna from being greasy.
3. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and diced green chilies. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend into a tasty filling. Once done, remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start by placing 3 tortillas on the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly. Spread about one-third of your beef and bean mixture evenly over the tortillas. Then sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese on top.
5. Layer It Up:
Repeat the layers two more times: add more tortillas, then beef mixture, and cheese. For the final layer, add a generous topping of cheese, and if you’re using them, sprinkle sliced black olives on top.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let It Rest:
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps it to set and makes it easier to slice into portions.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your delicious lasagna with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped green onions. Serve warm and watch your family dive in for seconds!
Enjoy your cheesy, easy-to-make Mexican lasagna! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to season it well, as it has a milder flavor. You can follow the same cooking steps as you would for ground beef.
What Can I Use Instead of Tortillas?
If you don’t have tortillas, you can use lasagna noodles for a traditional twist. Just make sure to cook the noodles according to package instructions before layering. Alternatively, thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant can work for a low-carb version!
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months! To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Of course! You can substitute the ground beef with a mixture of beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You may also want to add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and texture.
