This Mexican lasagna is a fun twist on the classic! It layers tortillas, spicy beef, and melted cheese for a tasty meal that packs a punch!
I love how quick it is to throw together. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or keeping leftovers for a late-night snack. Who doesn’t love seconds? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I like using ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu for a hearty texture without the meat.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient, but dried beans work too if you cook them ahead of time. You can also use pinto beans or kidney beans based on what you have!
Corn: Canned corn is quick and easy, but frozen sweet corn adds great texture. If you want to skip corn, try diced bell peppers for a different flavor.
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder—it’s super simple! Adjust spices based on your preference.
How Do You Layer the Mexican Lasagna for the Best Results?
Layering is key to making a delicious Mexican lasagna that cooks evenly. Start with tortillas on the bottom; this keeps the base nice and stable. Alternate layers with meat mixture and cheese for great flavor throughout. Make sure your last layer is cheese—this is what creates that delightful bubbly top!
- First layer: tortillas, meat mixture, and cheddar cheese.
- Second layer: more tortillas, remaining meat mixture, and more cheese.
- Final top layer: tortillas, Monterey Jack cheese, and diced tomatoes.
How to Make Mexican Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
For the Layers:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to cook, making a total of around 1 hour of your time. You’ll brown the meat, mix in tasty beans and salsa, layer it up, and bake until bubbly. Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Turn your oven on to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you need it. This will help the lasagna cook evenly and get all bubbly.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Stir it around and make sure it’s cooked all the way through. If there’s any grease, drain it off so your lasagna isn’t too greasy.
3. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Add the black beans, corn, refried beans, salsa, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together until well mixed and heated through. This makes a tasty filling!
4. Start Layering:
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and lay down 3 corn tortillas, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom. This is your base!
5. Add the First Layer:
Spread half of the meat and bean mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Now, layer more tortillas, the rest of the meat mixture, and then some more cheese. You’re building a hearty lasagna here!
7. Finish the Layers:
Top it all off with the last 2 tortillas. Sprinkle the rest of the Monterey Jack cheese and diced tomatoes on top. This will create a beautiful, cheesy crust.
8. Bake It:
Cover your dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps everything mingle together nicely.
9. Get it Golden:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is all bubbly and golden. Yum!
10. Cool and Garnish:
Take the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro for color and flavor.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your Mexican Lasagna and serve it warm. If you like, add a dollop of sour cream on the side for some extra creaminess. Enjoy this tasty meal!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, a plant-based meat alternative, or even keep it vegetarian by doubling the black beans or adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just ensure any substitutions are cooked thoroughly before layering in the lasagna!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground meat and double the amount of black beans or add in some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also use cheese that doesn’t contain animal rennet to keep it fully vegetarian!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mexican Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the entire dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if putting it in the oven straight from the fridge!
