This Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic! Layers of tortillas, flavorful ground beef, beans, and cheese come together to create a hearty dish that everyone will love.
I often make this when I want a simple dinner that feels special. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family—just don’t forget the extra salsa on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Either works, but I often choose turkey for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using chopped mushrooms or lentils to mimic the meat texture.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or pinto beans are great substitutes that still provide a similar flavor. You can also use canned chickpeas if you prefer something different.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack create a lovely melty layer. Don’t have these? Colby Jack or Pepper Jack can work well too! If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese options that melt well.
Corn: This is sweet and juicy. If you’re out of canned corn, fresh or frozen corn can easily swap in. Just cook it slightly before adding it to the mixture.
How Do I Layer Lasagna Like a Pro?
Layering can make or break your lasagna. Here’s how to ensure it’s even and delicious:
- Start with a thin layer of the meat mixture at the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Place the corn tortillas in a single layer, slightly overlapping if needed, to cover the meat mixture.
- Repeat the layers: meat mixture, tortillas, cheese, making sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top for a beautiful finish.
After baking, let it cool a bit before slicing. This helps the layers set and keeps everything from sliding out when you cut it. Enjoy the colorful layers when you serve!
How to Make Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups salsa
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You will need an additional 30-35 minutes for baking. All in all, get ready for a tasty meal in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when you’re finished assembling the lasagna.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish nice and healthy.
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
Next, stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes until everything is well heated through and mixed together perfectly.
4. Layer the Lasagna:
Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. Now, layer corn tortillas over the meat—overlapping them is fine! Add another layer of the meat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This creates that melty, cheesy goodness we love.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Keep going with the layers! Alternate between corn tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese until all your ingredients are used up. Make sure to finish with a generous amount of cheese on top—nobody wants to miss out on that bubbly cheesiness!
6. Bake It Up:
Cover the baking dish with foil and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—this is the moment of truth!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes slicing easier! Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions, fresh diced tomatoes, and cilantro if you like to add that extra touch.
8. Enjoy!
Slice up your Mexican Lasagna and share it with family or friends. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the cheesy layers in every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute cooked, shredded chicken for the ground beef or turkey. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, since pre-cooked chicken only needs to be heated through, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Corn Tortillas?
If you don’t have corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. You could also use lasagna noodles for a twist, but you’ll need to cook them before layering.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual servings for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and increase the amount of black beans and corn, or add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tempeh to maintain a hearty texture, making it a delicious vegetarian option!
