This Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic dish! It layers tortillas with spicy beans, zesty salsa, and heaps of melty cheese that everyone will love.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners! I like serving it with sour cream and guacamole on the side—because let’s be honest, what’s better than extra toppings? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but turkey lightens things up. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tofu, seasoned with the same spices, for protein.
Black Beans: Black beans add great texture and protein. You can substitute with pinto beans or kidney beans if needed. Canned beans are super convenient, just rinse them well before adding!
Salsa: The type of salsa you choose affects flavor. I love a chunky salsa for extra bits, but feel free to use fresh salsa or even a spicy variety for more kick!
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cream cheese options.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas can work too! Just make sure to adjust for flavor; they’re a bit more neutral.
How Do I Get My Onions and Garlic Just Right?
Cooking onion and garlic properly enhances the entire dish. For perfectly sautéed onion and garlic:
- Heat the skillet on medium heat and add a bit of oil.
- Add diced onion first, cooking until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Then, add minced garlic and stir for another minute. Be careful not to burn it; garlic cooks faster!
This technique brings out sweetness and flavor in both ingredients, setting up a delicious base for your lasagna.
What’s the Best Way to Layer My Lasagna?
Layering is key for even flavors and textures. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a layer of the cream cheese mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Place your tortillas, slightly overlapping, to create a solid base.
- Alternate layers of meat mixture and cheese—don’t be shy with the cheese!
- Finish with tortillas and cheese on top to create a nice crust when baked.
This method ensures every bite is flavorful and cheesy. Plus, it looks great when served!
Enjoy making this delicious Mexican lasagna!
Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 (16 oz) jar salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 6-8 small corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 medium tomato, diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should set aside about 45 minutes to bring this delicious lasagna to life!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your lasagna is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 6-8 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Add the Flavors:
Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to your skillet. Mix well, then stir in the black beans, diced green chilies, and about half of the salsa. Let this cook together for another 3-4 minutes, so all the flavors meld nicely.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the remaining salsa. Mix until smooth—you’ll use this to create a tasty layer!
5. Start Layering:
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese salsa mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent sticking and add flavor.
6. First Layer of Tortillas:
Now it’s time to layer! Place 3-4 tortillas over the bottom, slightly overlapping as needed. Don’t worry about perfection; just make sure they cover the area.
7. Add the Meat Mixture:
Spread half of your meat and bean mixture evenly over the tortillas, followed by a sprinkle of one-third of the shredded cheese.
8. Repeat Layers:
Repeat the layering process again: add another set of tortillas, the remaining meat mixture, and another third of the cheese.
9. Final Layer:
Top with a final layer of tortillas, then spread the remaining cream cheese salsa mixture on top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of the remaining cheese over everything.
10. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes in your preheated oven. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, allow the lasagna to cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the layers set. Then, sprinkle with diced tomatoes and chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve warm. Don’t forget to offer sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side for an extra treat!
Enjoy your delicious, gooey Mexican-inspired lasagna with friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter alternative. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or mushrooms seasoned with spices for a hearty flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Mexican lasagna gluten-free, simply swap out the corn tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. You can also use layers of veggies like zucchini or eggplant as a substitute for the tortillas if you prefer!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of broth or water while reheating to keep it moist if desired!
Enjoy making your Easy Cheesy Mexican Lasagna!
