Mexican Lasagna Casserole

Featured in family-meals.

Hey there! You've got to try this Mexican Lasagna Casserole - it's absolutely amazing! Those layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn tortillas and melty cheese create the perfect comfort food base. And just look at those fresh toppings - bright red tomatoes, cool sour cream, and vibrant green cilantro and onions! The contrast between the warm, gooey interior and the fresh, crisp toppings is pure magic. It's perfect for family dinner night and everyone will be asking for seconds!

Tswira dial profile dial zaho awlaydi..
Updated on Fri, 16 May 2025 22:39:29 GMT
Baked Mexican lasagna casserole with layers of tortillas, beef, cheese and fresh toppings pin it
Baked Mexican lasagna casserole with layers of tortillas, beef, cheese and fresh toppings | lonerecipes.com

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.
Recipe picture pin it
Cheesy Mexican lasagna casserole with corner piece removed showing multiple delicious layers | lonerecipes.com

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.

Homemade Mexican style lasagna in glass dish topped with sour cream, diced tomatoes and cilantro pin it
Homemade Mexican style lasagna in glass dish topped with sour cream, diced tomatoes and cilantro | lonerecipes.com

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!

Mexican Lasagna Casserole

Layers of corn tortillas, seasoned beef, black beans, and melted cheese topped with fresh tomatoes, sour cream, and cilantro.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes
By: chris

Category: family-meals

Difficulty: easy

Cuisine: Mexican-American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 balls)

Dietary: Protein-rich, Family-friendly

Ingredients

011 lb lean ground beef
022 tbsp taco seasoning
031 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
041 can (15 oz) corn, drained
051 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
0612 corn tortillas
073 cups shredded cheddar cheese
081 cup sour cream
092 medium tomatoes, diced
103 green onions, sliced
111/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Add taco seasoning to the meat along with 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer, and cook for 3-4 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir in black beans and corn, then remove from heat.

Step 03

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch glass baking dish.

Step 04

Layer 4 corn tortillas on the bottom of the dish, overlapping slightly. Top with 1/3 of the meat mixture, 1/4 cup enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 05

Repeat with another layer of 4 tortillas, 1/3 of meat mixture, 1/4 cup enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of cheese.

Step 06

Add the final layer of 4 tortillas, remaining meat mixture, remaining enchilada sauce, and remaining cheese.

Step 07

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges are slightly crisp.

Step 08

Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Top with dollops of sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  1. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if preferred.
  2. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or as a topping.
  3. This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
  4. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  5. For a less spicy version, use mild enchilada sauce and reduce the amount of taco seasoning.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 inch glass baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cheese and sour cream)
  • Gluten (may be present in some taco seasonings)
  • Corn (tortillas)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 330
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25 g
  • Protein: 27 g

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