If you love lasagna and crave Mexican cuisine, this Mexican Lasagna is the perfect marriage of both worlds. It’s layered like traditional Italian lasagna but infused with the vibrant spices, hearty beans, and cheesy goodness that define beloved Mexican dishes. Imagine layers of juicy seasoned beef, tender tortillas, creamy beans, corn, tangy tomatoes, and a melty cheese blend—baked to bubbly, golden perfection.
This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, meal prep, or whenever you need something hearty and satisfying that can feed a crowd. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- ½ cup salsa
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Preparing the Mexican Lasagna
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cook the Seasoned Beef Mixture
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Add the minced garlic and stir for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Mix everything thoroughly and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, so the flavors blend and the mixture thickens slightly.
This beef and veggie blend is the flavorful heart of your Mexican lasagna—it brings in that classic taco taste with added texture and color.
Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Now it’s time to build your layers:
- Place 2 flour tortillas on the bottom of the greased baking dish, overlapping slightly to cover the surface.
- Spoon over a generous layer of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef.
Repeat the layers two more times: tortillas, beef mixture, cheese. This builds depth and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Finish with a final layer of tortillas, and top with the remaining cheese. This top layer will become golden and bubbly in the oven, sealing in all the layers below.
Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Garnish and Serve
Top your Mexican lasagna with chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby finish. You can also offer sour cream, guacamole, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges, or extra salsa on the side for added flair.
Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and comfort.
Tips for a Perfect Mexican Lasagna
-
Tortilla Choice Matters:
Flour tortillas provide a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you want a firmer structure, go with corn tortillas—just warm them slightly to prevent cracking during assembly. -
Customize the Cheese:
Use a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack for a spicier, more complex flavor. You can even try queso fresco or cotija sprinkled on top after baking for an authentic Mexican touch. -
Vegetarian Twist:
Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based crumbles. The rest of the layers remain the same, making it an easy meatless meal. -
Spice Level Control:
Adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy taco seasoning and salsa. Want more kick? Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture. -
Make Ahead:
Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Just add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. -
Freeze Friendly:
Freeze individual portions or the full assembled dish (unbaked). Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the beef?
Absolutely. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as a lighter option. You could also skip the meat entirely and double up on beans, lentils, or veggies for a vegetarian version.
Will corn tortillas work instead of flour?
Yes! Corn tortillas add a more traditional Mexican flavor and a firmer bite. Just warm them briefly before layering to make them pliable and prevent breaking.
How do I keep the lasagna from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the corn and beans thoroughly and simmer the beef mixture until it’s slightly thickened. This helps reduce excess moisture. If you prefer firmer layers, use corn tortillas.
What should I serve with Mexican lasagna?
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs well with a side salad, Mexican rice, refried beans, or tortilla chips and salsa. For drinks, try a lime agua fresca or a classic margarita.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, a 1-ounce packet of store-bought taco seasoning works perfectly. However, you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt if you want a custom blend.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers will last 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven until heated through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, Mexican lasagna freezes very well. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To cook, thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding extra time if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Lasagna is everything you love about tacos, enchiladas, and cheesy casseroles—rolled into one satisfying dish. It’s flexible, easy to prepare, and loaded with zesty flavors and textures that bring your dinner table to life.
From busy weeknights to casual weekend get-togethers, this dish is a go-to comfort food that never disappoints. The best part? You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a must-have recipe for every home cook. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.Outils