Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna

This Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the comforting layers of lasagna. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 8-10 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional for extra heat)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Cook for about 5 minutes, until everything is well combined and heated through.
4. Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Place a layer of tortillas over the salsa. You may need to cut them to fit the dish.
6. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then spread a layer of sour cream on top.
7. Sprinkle with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layering process with tortillas, beef mixture, sour cream, and cheese, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6-8 servings

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or use extra hot salsa.
• Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with extra beans or vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent the cheese from burning.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use larger tortillas?

• Yes, but you may need to adjust the layering to fit the size of your baking dish.

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

1. Can I freeze this lasagna?

• Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

1. What if I don’t have salsa?

• You can use extra taco seasoning or a mixture of diced tomatoes and a bit of hot sauce.

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free tortillas and check that the taco seasoning mix is gluten-free.

1. Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?

• Yes, you can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.

1. What can I use instead of sour cream?

• Greek yogurt is a good substitute for a tangy flavor and added protein.

1. How can I make this dish less spicy?

• Use mild salsa and omit jalapeños or extra hot seasoning.

1. Can I use pre-cooked tortillas?

• Yes, pre-cooked tortillas can be used; just ensure they are pliable for layering.

1. How do I know when it’s done?
   • The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the layers are heated through.

Conclusion

This Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna brings together the rich flavors of tacos with the comforting layers of lasagna, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to please with its hearty and delicious layers. Enjoy!

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