This Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on traditional lasagna! With layers of tortillas, spicy ground beef, beans, and cheesy goodness, it’s a hearty meal everyone will love.
Who needs pasta when you’ve got tortillas? I can’t help but sneak a piece right from the dish. Just make sure to have extra napkins ready—things can get messy, but it’s so worth it!
Making this dish is super easy! I just stack everything up, pop it in the oven, and soon, my kitchen smells amazing. It’s a delightful way to enjoy comfort food with a kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for the lasagna structure. If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas can be used, but they will add a different taste and texture.
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can use either for a heartier flavor. For a healthier option, try lean ground chicken or even a plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber to the dish. If you’re not a bean fan, you could replace them with more corn or even some cooked lentils to keep that nutrition high.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes make it easy, but you can also use fresh diced tomatoes. If you like some heat, go for diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack offers great flavor. Feel free to use just one type, or substitute with pepper jack for a little spice, or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Meat Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the meat properly is key to a flavorful lasagna. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating your pan on medium heat before adding the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions and garlic. Cook until they’re soft; this flavor foundation is crucial!
- When adding the ground meat, break it up with a spoon while it cooks. You want it browned and crumbly, not clumped together, which makes for a better texture in the lasagna.
- Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after browning to keep your dish from becoming greasy.
How to Make Mexican Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies optional)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix works well)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced tomatoes (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be looking at around 55 minutes before you can enjoy your Mexican lasagna—perfect for a family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, take a large skillet and add the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients until the onion turns translucent, which should take a few minutes.
2. Cook the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook this until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Be sure to drain any excess fat once it’s cooked through, so your dish doesn’t get too greasy.
3. Mix in the Beans and Veggies:
To the skillet, stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, corn, and the taco seasoning. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste! Let this delicious mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until everything is heated through and well combined.
4. Layer the Lasagna:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start spreading a thin layer of the meat mixture first. Next, layer corn tortillas over the top; you might need to break some to make them fit. After that, spread a layer of sour cream over the tortillas, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Now, repeat the layering process starting with more of the meat mixture, then another layer of corn tortillas, another smear of sour cream, and the rest of the cheese. For the final touch, add one last layer of corn tortillas on top, followed by the remaining meat mixture, and top it all off with the rest of the cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden on top!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to serve. Before enjoying, garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Lasagna! It’s a hearty dish that will surely be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well. Just ensure whatever you choose is cooked through and seasoned to your liking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground meat with an additional can of black beans or your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add extra cheese for more flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! You can substitute flour tortillas or even regular pasta sheets. If using pasta, be sure to cook the sheets according to the package directions before assembling your lasagna.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can add a splash of water if it seems a bit dry during reheating!
