Mexican Lasagna Casserole

I first discovered this Mexican Lasagna recipe when I was looking for creative ways to use my leftover taco ingredients. The combination of tortillas instead of pasta, layered with perfectly seasoned ground beef, beans, and melty cheese immediately caught my attention. What I love about this dish is how it transforms familiar Mexican flavors into a format that's easy to serve family-style. The first time I made it, the aroma filling my kitchen was incredible - that blend of taco spices, enchilada sauce, and bubbling cheese was irresistible. When I topped it with fresh tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro, the contrast between the warm, hearty base and the cool, fresh toppings was perfect. It's become one of my go-to recipes when hosting friends who love Mexican cuisine but want something beyond the usual tacos or burritos.

Why I love this recipe

I absolutely love this Mexican Lasagna recipe because it combines the comfort of a casserole with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. There's something magical about the layers - each bite gives you a perfect combination of spiced beef, beans, corn tortillas, and melted cheese. The enchilada sauce adds just the right amount of tanginess and depth. What really makes it special, though, is the contrast between the hot, bubbling layers and the cool, fresh toppings. That dollop of sour cream melting slightly into the warm casserole, combined with the bright acidity of fresh tomatoes and the herbal notes of cilantro - it's truly a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it's incredibly flexible - I can adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins, or add extra vegetables based on what I have on hand. It's my ultimate crowd-pleaser for large gatherings because it's easy to prepare ahead and always disappears quickly!

What You Need From Your Kitchen

• Ground beef: Browns as the protein base for the filling
• Black beans: Add protein, fiber and texture to the meat mixture
• Corn tortillas: Create the structural layers, similar to pasta in traditional lasagna
• Enchilada sauce: Provides authentic Mexican flavor and moisture
• Cheddar cheese: Creates the gooey, melty layers and golden top
• Fresh toppings: Tomatoes, green onions and cilantro add brightness and color

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the meat mixture

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet until no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning along with a splash of water. Simmer briefly until the liquid is absorbed, then mix in the black beans and corn.

Layer the casserole

Start with a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add tortillas, then meat mixture, more sauce, and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Repeat these layers twice more, ending with cheese on top.

Bake to perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown at the edges.

Add fresh toppings

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking, then top with dollops of sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro before serving.

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Switch Things Up

I first made this Mexican Lasagna when I was looking for a new way to use up leftover taco meat. Instead of the usual tacos or burritos, I wanted something that could feed the whole family and be easily served from one dish. The first time I made it, I actually forgot the enchilada sauce and it was still delicious, but adding it takes it to another level of flavor. My kids initially were suspicious of this 'strange lasagna' but after one bite, they were completely sold! Now they request it at least twice a month.

Perfect Pairings

This Mexican Lasagna Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For beverages, try a classic margarita for adults or a refreshing agua fresca for everyone. If you want more sides, Mexican rice or cilantro-lime cauliflower rice works great. For dessert, keep with the theme and serve churros with chocolate dipping sauce or a light tres leches cake to end the meal on a sweet note.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it covered. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and double the amount of black beans, or substitute with 2 cups of cooked lentils or your favorite meat substitute.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but always check your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce ingredients to ensure they don't contain gluten. You can make your own taco seasoning to guarantee it's gluten-free.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, use mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce depending on your preference. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat, or reduce the taco seasoning for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

This Mexican Lasagna Casserole is a delicious fusion dish that brings together the best of Mexican flavors in an easy-to-serve format. The layers of tortillas, seasoned beef, beans, and cheese create a satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The fresh toppings add brightness and contrast to the rich, savory base. It's a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation!