This Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic dish. It layers tortillas, spicy ground beef, and plenty of ooey-gooey cheese for a tasty meal that everyone will love!
I can’t get enough of how quick it comes together, perfect for busy nights. Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a balanced meal that feels like a fiesta on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: This forms the protein base of your lasagna. Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute if you want a lighter option. I’ve found turkey absorbs flavors well, making each bite tasty.
Taco Seasoning: A ready-made packet is super convenient, but you can create your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. I mix a batch and store it for quick meals.
Tortillas: While small tortillas are the typical choice, feel free to use larger ones; just adjust how many layers you make. Corn tortillas provide a nice authentic twist!
Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend works well, but mozzarella or even pepper jack can add extra flavor. I love the creaminess of mozzarella mixed in!
Sour Cream: This adds richness and creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt as a healthy swap that still gives a similar texture and tang.
How Do I Layer My Lasagna for Best Results?
Layering is key to a successful lasagna. It helps distribute flavors and allows for even cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a small base of meat sauce in the baking dish. This prevents sticking.
- Add your tortillas in a circular pattern, overlapping if needed.
- Spread a portion of the meat mixture above the tortillas, followed by a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Repeat layers two or three times, keeping the last layer focused on cheese for a nice golden top.
Patience in layering gives you beautiful slices and a well-balanced flavor in every bite. Enjoy the process—it’s worth it!
Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
For the Layers:
- 6-8 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional)
- 1 large tomato, diced (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado, chopped olives
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep time and 30 minutes for cooking. The total time is roughly 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option perfect for family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Mexican lasagna will cook evenly once it’s ready to go in.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until it’s nicely browned. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Seasoning and Ingredients:
Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then stir in the taco seasoning and water, letting the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens up.
Next, add the black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix everything together well and cook for another 2-3 minutes before taking it off the heat. Your filling is almost ready!
4. Layer the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Next, layer 2-3 tortillas over the meat mixture, overlapping them as needed to cover the entire area.
On top of the tortillas, spread some of the meat mixture, followed by a few spoonfuls of sour cream and a handful of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, making sure the final layer is cheese on top!
5. Bake Your Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish with foil and bake it for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baking is complete, let the lasagna cool for about 5 minutes for easier slicing. Before serving, garnish with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro. Add any optional toppings you love!
Slice, serve it warm, and enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna!
This delightful dish combines layers of tortillas with a flavorful beef and bean mixture, topped with melted cheese, and creates a hearty meal that the whole family will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is a great substitute. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it with the taco seasoning and other ingredients. Follow the same layering process as you would with the ground beef.
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the ground meat with any plant-based protein like lentils, soy crumbles, or even just extra beans and veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Just make sure to wrap them well or use freezer-safe containers!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
Of course! While a Mexican cheese blend is delicious, you can substitute it with mozzarella, pepper jack, or cheddar, depending on your taste preference. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a richer flavor!
