If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, this Dutch Oven Mexican Tortilla Lasagna is the answer. Combining the flavors of a classic lasagna with the zesty kick of Mexican cuisine, this dish layers seasoned taco ground beef, tortillas, salsa, and cheese into a delicious and satisfying meal. Best of all, it’s made in a Dutch oven, which makes it a perfect one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up.
Ingredients for Dutch Oven Mexican Tortilla Lasagna
Scale for 1X, 2X, 3X Batches
For the Taco Ground Beef:
- 4 pounds ground beef: Lean ground beef works best for this recipe, but you can use any variety you prefer.
- 4 tablespoons Mexican seasoning: Use a store-bought taco seasoning or make your own blend.
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic kick.
To Assemble the Lasagna:
- 6 large tortillas: Flour tortillas work best, but you can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- 3 cups salsa: Choose your favorite salsa, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot, depending on your taste preference.
- 4 cups shredded Mexican cheese: A blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco works well.
Instructions: How to Make Dutch Oven Mexican Tortilla Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Ground Beef
- Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the finely diced onion and crushed garlic to the beef. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the Mexican seasoning, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Assemble the Tortilla Lasagna
- Remove the cooked beef from the Dutch oven and set it aside. Wipe the Dutch oven clean if necessary, then lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Place two tortillas on the bottom of the Dutch oven, overlapping as needed to cover the base.
- Spread 1/3 of the cooked taco ground beef over the tortillas, followed by 1 cup of salsa, and then 1 1/3 cups of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers twice more: tortillas, beef, salsa, and cheese.
Step 3: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the Dutch oven with its lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the lasagna is heated through.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Use a sharp knife or a spatula to cut into wedges and serve.
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Tortilla Choice: Flour tortillas create a soft, lasagna-like texture, while corn tortillas add a bit of chewiness and are gluten-free. Choose based on your preference.
- Salsa Variety: Feel free to use different types of salsa, such as roasted tomato, verde, or even a chipotle salsa for added smokiness.
- Cheese Options: A Mexican cheese blend is ideal, but you can use other types like pepper jack or even a smoky gouda for a twist.
- Additional Layers: Add black beans, corn, or sliced jalapeños between the layers for extra texture and flavor.
Variations of Dutch Oven Mexican Tortilla Lasagna
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to try:
- Chicken Tortilla Lasagna: Substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken. You can also use a combination of ground turkey and chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Tortilla Lasagna: Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, pinto beans, and corn for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini.
- Breakfast Tortilla Lasagna: Use scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese for a breakfast twist on this recipe. Serve with a side of guacamole and fresh salsa.
- Creamy Tortilla Lasagna: Add a layer of sour cream or a mixture of sour cream and cream cheese between the layers for a creamier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the oven until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna as instructed, but before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
4. What can I serve with this tortilla lasagna?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You can also top it with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.
5. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, store-bought taco seasoning works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer homemade, you can mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano to create your own blend.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, use a spicy salsa, add diced jalapeños to the layers, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the beef mixture.
7. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook the assembled lasagna on the stovetop over low heat with the Dutch oven covered. Cook until the cheese is melted and the layers are heated through, about 20–25 minutes.
A Crowd-Pleasing Mexican-Inspired Dish
Dutch Oven Mexican Tortilla Lasagna is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and tortillas, it’s a fun and tasty twist on traditional lasagna. The Dutch oven makes it easy to cook and serve, whether you’re feeding a large family or hosting a casual dinner party.
