This Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic! It’s made with layers of tortillas, spicy beef or beans, and melty cheese, all baked to perfection. Yummy and hearty!
It’s like a cozy hug but with a little kick! I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top. It’s a hit at family dinners, and I always end up with extra slices for lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I like using ground turkey for a lighter option, but beef adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a meatless version, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives instead.
Black Beans: These give a rich texture. If you can’t find black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. They have a similar taste and will still keep your dish hearty.
Corn: I usually go for canned corn for convenience. Frozen corn is another great option. Just toss it in while cooking to thaw. Fresh corn can be used, but you’ll need to cook it before adding.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a spicy kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular diced tomatoes, and you can add some chili powder to taste. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes can also give a nice smokiness.
Salsa: The type of salsa can change your dish’s flavor. I love using medium salsa for a balanced taste, but if you enjoy heat, go for hot salsa. You can also make your own fresh salsa for a unique flair.
How Can I Make the Layers Perfect for My Mexican Lasagna?
The layering of ingredients creates harmony in flavors and texture, so it’s key to get this right. Here’s how you can achieve perfectly layered Mexican lasagna:
- Start with a thin layer of meat mixture on the bottom. This helps prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
- Place the tortillas over the meat mix, ensuring they overlap slightly to cover the surface.
- Sprinkle cheese generously; it not only adds flavor but also helps bind the layers together.
- Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, always ending with cheese on top for a golden, bubbling finish.
After oven time, let it cool a bit. This makes slicing easier and helps the layers set nicely! Enjoy your creation!
How to Make Delicious Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Layers:
- 1 package (12 oz) corn tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh tomatoes, diced
- Green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Mexican lasagna will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 40-50 minutes to cook. All together, you’re looking at just about an hour to have this hearty dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Meats:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook it until it’s fully browned. Remember to drain off any excess fat so your lasagna doesn’t get greasy!
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with your cooked meat. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will bring in lots of flavors into the mix!
3. Mixing in the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, chili powder, cumin, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Layering the Lasagna:
Take out a 9×13 inch baking dish and begin by spreading a thin layer of your flavorful meat mixture at the bottom. Next, layer corn tortillas over the meat, making sure to cover the surface completely. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the tortillas. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, making sure that the last layer is cheese on top. Yum!
5. Baking to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Cooling and Serving:
Take your gorgeous lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. To make it extra special, garnish your dish with fresh diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and cilantro if you like!
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Lasagna—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef or turkey with shredded rotisserie chicken, or even keep it vegetarian by adding additional beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty alternative.
Are Corn Tortillas Necessary, or Can I Use Another Type?
While corn tortillas are traditional, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer! Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. If using flour tortillas, consider reducing the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just ensure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of salsa to keep it moist if needed.
