This Mexican lasagna is a fun twist on the classic dish! With layers of tortillas, ground beef, beans, and melty cheese, it’s packed with flavor.
Perfect for a family dinner, I love how everyone gets excited to dig in. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead—just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Use ground turkey for a lighter option, or consider using black beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist. If you’re looking for flavor, adding chorizo can give a nice kick.
Black Beans: Canned black beans save time, but you can use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. If you’re avoiding beans, try adding extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
Corn: Canned corn is convenient, but frozen corn works perfectly too. If corn is not your thing, diced bell peppers add a colorful crunch.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: If you can’t find Rotel, use regular diced tomatoes and add fresh jalapeños for spice. This way, you control the heat level.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give that traditional taste, but you can also use flour tortillas for a softer texture. Gluten-free tortillas are another alternative if needed.
How Can I Make the Layers Perfectly?
Layering is essential for a well-structured lasagna. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a thin layer of the meat mixture to prevent sticking.
- Use 4 tortillas each time to maintain a balanced ratio of tortillas to filling.
- Don’t rush the layering. Spread ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
After baking, letting it sit for 5 minutes helps everything set. This makes serving easier and keeps the layers intact. Enjoy your work!
How to Make Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Layers:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 corn tortillas
For the Cheesy Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mexican Lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to cook. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in about an hour! Just some cooking, layering, and baking, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting it nice and warm will help your lasagna cook evenly and melt the cheese perfectly!
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it’s browned, stirring occasionally. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish lighter.
3. Add the Good Stuff:
Now it’s time for some flavor! Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so all the ingredients get nice and heated through.
4. Start Layering:
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. This will keep your tortillas from sticking and add flavor.
5. First Layer of Tortillas and Cheese:
Place 4 corn tortillas over the meat mixture. Then, add half of the remaining meat mixture on top, and sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over it.
6. Second Layer:
Repeat the process! Add another 4 tortillas, the rest of the meat mixture, and one cup of mozzarella cheese over everything.
7. Final Layer and Toppings:
Top it off with the last 4 tortillas. Spread some sour cream evenly across the tortillas and then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. It’s going to be cheesy and delicious!
8. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake it for 25 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together perfectly.
9. Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown too much!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once you take your Mexican Lasagna out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes. Then, get creative by garnishing it with diced fresh tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your beautiful, cheesy creation!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Mexican Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just ensure it’s wrapped tightly!
What Can I Use Instead of Corn Tortillas?
If you don’t have corn tortillas, flour tortillas work just fine! Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free tortillas or even layers of cooked zucchini slices for a veggie twist.
