This Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s made with layers of tortillas, zesty ground beef, and creamy cheese—super comforting and full of flavor!
The best part? It’s so easy to make! I love to throw in some beans and veggies to sneak in extra goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and hearty! 🌮❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Using corn tortillas gives this lasagna its authentic taste. If you need a gluten-free option, stick with corn tortillas. You can also try flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture, but they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Ground Beef (or Turkey): Ground beef offers rich flavor, but you can definitely swap it for ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version. I personally lean towards turkey for a healthier option.
Black Beans: They add great texture and protein. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. Both will keep the dish hearty!
Canned Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a nice kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, you could opt for plain diced tomatoes and add fresh or dried herbs instead to keep the flavor alive.
Cheese: While I love using a Mexican blend for extra flavor, cheddar is a classic choice. If you want to reduce dairy, nutritional yeast can sprinkle a cheesy flavor without the calories!
How Do I Layer the Lasagna Correctly?
Layering can be tricky, but it’s key to the success of your lasagna. Each layer needs to build flavor while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- Start with salsa at the bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture.
- When layering tortillas, lay them flat so they overlap slightly; this helps create sturdy layers.
- Spread ingredients evenly to avoid dry spots. I find using a spatula helps do this.
- Don’t be shy with your layers! Build it up with cheese and salsa to create gooey goodness.
- Cover with foil initially to keep moisture in, then uncover for the last part to let the cheese get golden.
How to Make Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend), divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1-2 cups diced tomatoes (for topping)
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll spend about 1 hour, including the time to let it cool before serving. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gets it nice and hot for baking our delicious lasagna.
2. Cook the Ground Meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess fat to make the dish a bit healthier.
3. Mix in the Goodies:
To the pan with the meat, stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, corn, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, just until everything is heated through and well combined.
4. Start Layering:
Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom. Then, place 3 corn tortillas on top of the salsa. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the tortillas evenly.
5. Add Creaminess and Cheese:
Now, dollop half of the sour cream over the meat layer and sprinkle some cheese on top. This will create a wonderfully creamy and cheesy layer!
6. Repeat the Process:
Continue layering by adding another 3 tortillas, the remaining meat mixture, dolloping the rest of the sour cream, and a little more cheese. Don’t forget to make it nice and even!
7. Final Touch:
For the top layer, add the last 3 tortillas. Spread salsa over them and top it all off with the remaining cheese. Yum!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake it for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly cheese that’s a bit golden on top.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, take the lasagna out of the oven (it’ll be hot!), and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set up a bit. Just before serving, top with diced tomatoes and sprinkle fresh cilantro. If you like, add some green onions for a nice crunch.
Enjoy your delicious Mexican lasagna! It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing.
Can I Use Tortilla Chips Instead of Corn Tortillas?
While traditional corn tortillas work best for this recipe, you can use tortilla chips for a unique twist! Layer them in the same way, but keep in mind that they will be crunchier and won’t absorb moisture like the tortillas do. You may want to reduce cooking time slightly to avoid burning the chips.
Can I Make This Mexican Lasagna Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the ground beef (or turkey) with an extra can of beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Adjust seasoning as needed to keep the flavor robust!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might add a splash of salsa or a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating to keep things moist and flavorful.
Can I Freeze Mexican Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Prepare it, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To bake, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
