Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Beef
Ingredients
2 lbs. of ground beef (or protein of choice)
1 16 oz. can of refried beans
1 4 oz. can of chopped green chiles (add more if you like extra spice)
1 package of store-bought taco seasoning
2 tbsp. of hot salsa of choice (if you do not like spicy, sub for an additional 2 tbsp. of mild salsa)
One 12 oz. package of flour (or corn) tortillas
4 c. of shredded cheese of choice
1 jar of store-bought mild salsa
2 c. of water
2 c. of sour cream
4 green onions, chopped
Optional: 1 can of sliced olives, drained
Optional: one tomato, chopped
Instructions
Cooking the Meat: Start by heating a skillet and cooking 2 pounds of ground beef until it is no longer pink. Make sure to drain any fat.
Adding Flavors: Next combine the beef with 1 can of refried beans, 1 can of chopped chiles and a packet of taco seasoning for that extra kick.
Preparing Layers: Grease a baking dish measuring 9×13 inches. Begin layering the tortillas, meat mixture and 1 cup of cheese. Repeat this process twice to create layers.
Salsa Mixture: In a bowl mix together 1 jar of salsa and 2 cups of water. Pour this mixture over the ingredients, in the baking dish. Cover it up. Let it bake at 350°F for one hour.
After an hour uncover the dish. Sprinkle a cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake it for another five minutes until the cheese melts perfectly. Allow it to rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.
Serving Time: When ready to serve garnish your dish with sour cream, chopped onions and any other optional toppings you desire. Slice into portions. Savor the flavors that await you!
Notes
To turn this Mexican Lasagna recipe, into a gluten-free version just choose corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
Make sure the taco seasoning you use is certified gluten-free as some brands might have hidden sources of gluten. Also check the labels on refried beans and other packaged ingredients to make sure they are gluten-free.
By making these substitutions you can enjoy every layer of this dish without any concerns about gluten. Delight in the flavors, without compromising!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: Approximately 480 calories per serving.
Total Fat: About 30 grams of fat per serving.
Saturated Fat: Around 14 grams of saturated fat per serving.
Cholesterol: Roughly 85 milligrams per serving.
Sodium: Approximately 1200 milligrams of sodium per serving.
Total Carbohydrates: About 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Dietary Fiber: Around 3 grams of dietary fiber per serving.
Total Sugars: Approximately 3 grams of sugars per serving.
Protein: About 28 grams of protein per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option or have dietary restrictions.
Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season it with the taco seasoning as directed.
What Are Some Recommended Toppings?
Popular toppings for Mexican lasagna include diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, jalapeños, guacamole, and shredded lettuce.
You can get creative and customize the toppings to your liking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble this Mexican lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
It’s a convenient option for meal prep or when you want to save time on a busy day.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this dish is suitable for freezing.
After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing.
To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What Sides Go Well with Mexican Lasagna?
Common side dishes to serve with Mexican lasagna include a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or a side of beans.
The choice of side dishes can complement the flavors of the lasagna and make it a complete meal.
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer or if you have them on hand.
Corn tortillas will give the dish a slightly different texture and flavor, but they work well in Mexican lasagna.
What Can I Substitute for Refried Beans?
If you don’t have refried beans, you can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans.
Simply mash or puree the beans to a similar consistency as refried beans.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To control the spice level, you can use mild salsa and reduce or omit the chopped green chiles.
If you like it spicier, you can add more chopped green chiles or use a spicier salsa.
Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of This Dish?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by using meatless crumbles, tofu, or a combination of beans as a protein substitute.
Ensure your taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the Mexican lasagna in advance and refrigerate it.
Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before refrigerating.
When you’re ready to bake, follow the instructions, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.