This Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on a classic dish! Layered with tortillas, savory beef, zesty salsa, and lots of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for busy nights, I can whip this up without the fuss. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, so I can enjoy it again tomorrow—double win! 🌮🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter version.
Black Beans: These add texture and protein. If you prefer, you could substitute with pinto beans or kidney beans—or omit them for a meatier kick!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade blends are easy! Just mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano for a quick DIY version.
Tortillas: You can use corn or flour tortillas based on preference. If you’re gluten-free, there are many great alternatives made from corn or other grains.
Cheese: I love a Mexican blend for flavor, but feel free to use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of queso fresco for a delightful twist!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Lasagna for Even Flavor?
Layering properly ensures that every bite is flavorful! Here’s a simple step-by-step:
- Start with a bit of the beef mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Cover with tortillas, overlapping slightly for even coverage.
- Alternate between beef, cheese, and tortillas, making sure the last layer is cheese for that gooey top.
- Press down slightly after each layer to help everything meld together during baking.
This technique helps each layer retain its flavor while the cheese on top gets that delicious golden brown!
Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack mix)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 1 large tomato, diced (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced black olives, diced jalapeños for additional layering or topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of baking time, making it a quick and easy option for dinner. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your lasagna.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Stir it until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, carefully drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these with the beef for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This adds great flavor to the mix!
4. Season the Beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning and about 1/4 cup of water. Continue to cook until the liquid has mostly evaporated. This helps the beef absorb all that yummy seasoning!
5. Mix in Beans and Salsa:
Once seasoned, remove the skillet from heat. Add the black beans, drained diced tomatoes, and salsa. Stir well to combine all these delicious ingredients!
6. Start Layering:
Grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the beef mixture across the bottom. This prevents the tortillas from sticking.
7. Add Tortillas:
Place tortillas over the beef mixture, covering the entire bottom of the dish. You can cut them if needed to fit perfectly!
8. Continue Layering:
Spread about 1/3 of the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1/3 of the shredded cheese. Repeat this layering two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven to bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
10. Rest and Serve:
Let the lasagna cool for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting time makes it easier to slice. Then, garnish with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions before serving!
Enjoy your rich and cheesy Mexican lasagna, perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends! It’s flavorful, filling, and sure to be a hit!
FAQ – Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure any alternative you use is cooked and well-seasoned!
How Do I 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 (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day in advance! Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just bake it for an extra 5-10 minutes, as it may need a bit more time to heat through.
What Can I Use Instead of Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, consider using thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as layers instead of tortillas. Just be sure to salt and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before layering!
