This tasty Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on traditional lasagna! Layers of tortillas, spicy meat, beans, and cheese make it a hearty dish you’ll love.
What’s great is how easy it is to throw together! I like to make it ahead of time, then just pop it in the oven when I’m ready. Perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for a truly Mexican-style lasagna. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas can work in a pinch, but they change the texture a bit. I find corn tortillas give a wonderful flavor and help hold the layers together.
Ground Beef/Turkey: I often use ground turkey for a leaner option. You can also opt for plant-based meat crumbles if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan dish. They soak up flavors well!
Black Beans: If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans are great alternatives. They add similar texture and protein. My personal favorite is using a mix of beans for added depth!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Any canned tomatoes will work, but adding diced tomatoes with green chilies gives an extra kick. If you prefer no spice, regular diced tomatoes are suitable. Fresh tomatoes can also be used if you have them!
Spices: If you lack chili powder or cumin, try taco seasoning as a substitute. It has similar components. I like to adjust spice levels depending on who I’m serving too!
How Can I Perfectly Layer My Mexican Lasagna?
Layering is crucial to achieve a great Mexican lasagna. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a layer of tortillas at the bottom to create a solid base.
- Evenly spread half of your meat mixture over the tortillas, making sure it covers them completely.
- Sprinkle cheese generously, followed by a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
- Repeat the layering process until you use up your ingredients, ending with the tortillas and cheese on top.
The key is to make sure every layer is well distributed for even heating and flavor. Letting it sit after baking allows the layers to set, making slicing easier!
How to Make Mexican Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, making a total of about 55 minutes from start to finish. It’s simple and quick, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Meat:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large skillet and cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat. Make sure to stir it occasionally until it’s browned, then drain any extra fat. This step ensures your meat is cooked perfectly before mixing with the other tasty ingredients.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In the same skillet, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, letting it heat through. This will create a delicious filling packed with wonderful flavors.
3. Layering the Lasagna:
Now, grab your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin the layering process by placing 3 corn tortillas at the bottom. Spread half of that tasty meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by about 1/3 cup of shredded cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream on top to make it creamy. Repeat this layering by adding another 3 tortillas, the rest of the meat mixture, another 1/3 cup of cheese, and another layer of sour cream!
4. Finishing Touches:
Top it all off with the last set of tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while it bakes.
5. Baking the Lasagna:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. This will make your kitchen smell amazing, and the lasagna will look irresistible!
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s done, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps it hold its shape when you cut pieces to serve. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped cilantro and some diced tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Mexican lasagna! It’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the type of meat you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply skip the ground meat and use more beans, like pinto or kidney beans, and add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This will still give you a hearty and satisfying dish!
Can I Prepare Mexican Lasagna in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for a quick meal!
