If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of lasagna, then this Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna is perfect for you! This recipe is a fantastic twist on traditional lasagna, using tortillas instead of pasta and loaded with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, salsa, and cheese. It’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (11 oz) package taco seasoning mix (Ole El Paso or Taco Bell’s recommended)
- 1 (14 oz) can peeled and diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 soft corn tortillas (6 inches)
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- ½ cup shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican or taco-style cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: Add Seasoning and Tomatoes
- Add the taco seasoning mix to the cooked ground beef according to the package instructions.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of salsa to prevent the tortillas from sticking.
- Place two tortillas on the bottom of the dish to cover the salsa.
- Spread 1/3 of the beef mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle a layer of Colby cheese over the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers two more times: tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional salsa if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or a mixture of beans (black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans) and corn.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy salsa to kick up the heat.
- Additional Toppings: Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or chopped green onions before serving.
- Tortilla Substitution: You can use flour tortillas if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
Keto Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the corn tortillas with low-carb tortillas and ensure the taco seasoning mix is sugar-free. You can also use more cheese and less salsa to keep the carb count low.
Low-Carb Version
Use low-carb tortillas or even slices of zucchini or eggplant in place of the corn tortillas. Make sure to use a salsa with no added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of ground beef should I use?
For a leaner option, use ground beef with a lower fat content, such as 90% lean. This will reduce the amount of grease in your dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Mexican Taco Lasagna?
Absolutely! After baking, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or place the entire dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
This Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the best of Mexican flavors to a classic lasagna format. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With options for keto and low-carb versions, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal. Try it out today, and it might just become your new favorite recipe!
