Ultimate Mexican Lasagna
The Ultimate Mexican Lasagna is a quick and easy casserole combining seasoned ground meat, Mexican spices, creamy cheeses, salsa, tortillas, and beans to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if corn tortillas are used)
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Mexican seasoning mix (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa roja
- Salt, to taste
Layers
- 8–10 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blend)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream dollops
- Optional jalapeños, sliced
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with chopped onions and garlic until browned and fragrant. Stir in the Mexican seasoning mix and a pinch of salt. Blend in the black beans and salsa, then simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and flavors meld.
- Layer the Lasagna: Grease a baking dish. Start with a thin layer of the meat mixture. Add a layer of tortillas on top, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese. Repeat layering meat, tortillas, and cheese two or three times, finishing with a top layer of cheese to create a bubbly crust.
- Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled lasagna uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Warm the tortillas slightly before layering to prevent cracking.
- Use slightly thick salsa to avoid soggy layers but retain moisture.
- Mix Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for perfect melt and flavor.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to set and slice smoothly.
- Make ahead by assembling the dish a day prior and refrigerate for deeper flavors before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of lasagna)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: Mexican lasagna, casserole, ground beef, Mexican spices, layered dish, easy dinner, weeknight meal, family-friendly