Dive Into Deliciousness with Cheesy Taco Lasagna

Are you craving the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting layers of lasagna? Look no further than Cheesy Taco Lasagna! This innovative dish takes the beloved elements of tacos and transforms them into a mouthwatering lasagna that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and soft flour tortillas, every bite is a symphony of flavor and texture. Join us as we dive into this tantalizing recipe, explore variations, and even provide keto and low-carb versions for those seeking healthier alternatives.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of taco size flour tortillas (about 12 tortillas needed for this recipe)
• 1 1/2 lbs. of ground beef
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 2 cups Pico de Gallo
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Sour cream & chopped green onions for toppings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbled.
   • Drain any excess grease from the skillet and add the taco seasoning. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese.
   • Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Layer half of the flour tortillas on top of the cheese sauce, overlapping as needed to cover the bottom of the dish.
   • Spoon half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by half of the Pico de Gallo.
   • Drizzle half of the remaining cheese sauce over the beef and Pico de Gallo, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, ground beef, Pico de Gallo, cheese sauce, and shredded cheese.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Serve the Cheesy Taco Lasagna with optional toppings such as sour cream and chopped green onions.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Beans: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or refried beans to the ground beef mixture.
• Spice it Up: If you like your tacos extra spicy, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a meatless alternative such as crumbled tofu or diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? A: Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas for flour tortillas if you prefer. Just be aware that corn tortillas may have a different texture and flavor.

Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze leftover lasagna? A: Yes, Cheesy Taco Lasagna freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and will work just as well in this recipe.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Cheesy Taco Lasagna, use low-carb tortillas or thinly sliced zucchini as the layers instead of flour tortillas. Replace the Pico de Gallo with diced tomatoes and onions to reduce the carb content, and use a keto-friendly cheese sauce made with heavy cream and shredded cheese.

Low-Carb Version: Follow the same substitutions as the keto version, and be sure to choose low-carb toppings such as avocado slices or diced bell peppers for serving.

In conclusion, Cheesy Taco Lasagna is a delicious twist on two classic dishes that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for Mexican-inspired flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this hearty and flavorful lasagna is guaranteed to be a hit. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and melty Mexican cheese, every bite is a taste sensation. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, taco-infused delight that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!