Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines? This Easy Taco Lasagna is the perfect solution! It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that layers tortillas, seasoned ground beef, salsa, sour cream, and cheese into a deliciously melty and hearty casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
Taco Lasagna
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium-sized red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup premium taco seasoning
- 12 six-inch flour tortillas
- 24 oz quality salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
- ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 can green chiles (optional)
- 1 can black beans, drained
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Seasoning and Chiles: Stir in the taco seasoning and green chiles (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the beef is well coated with the seasoning.
- Add Water: Pour in ½ cup of water to help distribute the seasoning evenly. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Taco Lasagna
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Tortillas and Beef: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom. Place 3 flour tortillas over the salsa, overlapping as necessary. Spoon one-third of the ground beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of black beans.
- Add Salsa and Sour Cream: Spread one-third of the remaining salsa over the beef and beans, followed by dollops of sour cream (about 1/3 cup).
- Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle one cup of the shredded Mexican Cheese Blend over the sour cream.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a final layer of tortillas topped with salsa and the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Taco Lasagna
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool: Allow the taco lasagna to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve: Slice the taco lasagna into squares and serve with additional sour cream, salsa, and any other desired toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños.
Cooking Notes
- Tortillas: You can use either flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference. Flour tortillas tend to hold up better in the lasagna, while corn tortillas provide a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both work well in this recipe.
- Beans: Black beans add a nice texture and flavor, but you can also use pinto beans or omit them if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the taco lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Q: Can I freeze taco lasagna? A: Absolutely! After assembling, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I serve with taco lasagna? A: Taco lasagna pairs well with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or a refreshing cucumber and avocado salad.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Yes, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or a meat substitute like seasoned tofu or tempeh.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, replace the flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant. Ensure the salsa and sour cream are low in carbs, and use a keto-friendly cheese.
This Easy Taco Lasagna is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
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