Hicham Cheesy Taco Lasagna combines the delicious flavors of tacos with the comforting layers of lasagna. This dish is packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and soft tortillas, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Cheesy Taco Lasagna, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 package of taco size flour tortillas (about 12 tortillas needed for this recipe)
- 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 2 cups Pico de Gallo
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Sour cream & chopped green onions for toppings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add Taco Seasoning:
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the packet of taco seasoning and follow the package instructions (usually involves adding some water and simmering until thickened).
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Heavy Cream:
- Gradually add the heavy cream to the melted butter, stirring constantly.
- Add Cheese:
- Slowly add 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of flour tortillas over the cheese sauce, cutting them as necessary to fit the dish.
- Spread a layer of seasoned ground beef over the tortillas, followed by a layer of Pico de Gallo.
- Drizzle more cheese sauce over the Pico de Gallo and sprinkle with a bit of the remaining shredded Mexican cheese.
- Repeat these layers (tortillas, beef, Pico de Gallo, cheese sauce, shredded cheese) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese sauce and shredded cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with sour cream and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used instead of flour tortillas for a different texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Taco Lasagna:
- Substitute the ground beef with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Taco Lasagna:
- Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Chicken Taco Lasagna:
- Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef and follow the same seasoning instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
3. Can I freeze taco lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) lasagna. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Lasagna?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.
5. Can I use store-bought cheese sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought cheese sauce to save time. Simply heat and use as directed in the recipe.
Cheesy Taco Lasagna is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and soft tortillas, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Cheesy Taco Lasagna a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful meal. Happy cooking!
