Looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this mouthwatering Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna recipe! Combining the classic flavors of tacos with the comforting layers of lasagna, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious twist on a beloved classic!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning mix (We recommend Old El Paso or Taco Bell’s flavorful seasoning)
- 1 (14 oz) can peeled and diced tomatoes with juice
- 10-12 soft corn tortillas
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby cheese (Mexican or taco-style cheese works great too)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then add the taco seasoning mix and diced tomatoes with juice. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Arrange a layer of corn tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish, tearing them as needed to fit.
- Spoon half of the ground beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out evenly.
- Drizzle half of the salsa over the ground beef layer, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, ground beef mixture, salsa, and shredded cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
- Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna into squares and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and any other desired toppings.
- Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish with your family and friends!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or black beans to the ground beef mixture.
- Use Different Proteins: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitute for a lighter version of this dish.
- Make it Spicy: Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna recipe:
- Low-Carb Tortillas: Substitute the soft corn tortillas with low-carb tortillas or thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a keto-friendly option.
- Use Cauliflower Rice: Replace the tortillas altogether and layer the ground beef mixture with cooked cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Reduce Salsa and Tomato Content: Limit the amount of salsa and diced tomatoes used in the recipe to minimize the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Leftover portions of the Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna can be frozen for future meals. Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Of course! Feel free to get creative with your toppings and add your favorite ingredients such as sliced olives, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or hot sauce to personalize each serving according to your taste preferences.
In conclusion, this Easy Mexican Taco Lasagna recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for both Mexican cuisine and classic comfort food. With its layers of savory ground beef, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Plus, with the option to customize the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, it’s a versatile and adaptable recipe that everyone can enjoy. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this delicious dish a try today!
