WW Mexican Lasagna

A Hearty, Flavorful Casserole Perfect for Any Occasion

Layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, tortillas, and zesty salsa come together in this Mexican Lasagna — a warm, crowd-pleasing twist on the classic Italian favorite. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite!

🍽 Recipe Card

Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Dietary Tags: Family Dinner | Freezer-Friendly | Comfort Food | Tex-Mex

✅ Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (use lean for a lighter version, or swap for ground turkey)

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained

• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)

• 1 (16 oz) jar salsa or enchilada sauce

• 2 Tbsp taco seasoning

• 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas, cut in halves or quarters

• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or cheddar + Monterey Jack)

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

• (Optional toppings): sour cream, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or green onions

🔢 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned and crumbly (about 6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
   Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

3. Add the Flavors:
   Stir in taco seasoning, chili powder, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors blend.

4. Layer the Lasagna:

   • Spread a thin layer of beef mixture in the bottom of the baking dish.

   • Add a layer of tortillas, followed by more beef mixture, and a layer of shredded cheese.

   • Repeat the layers until you’ve used all ingredients, ending with cheese on top.

5. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Rest & Serve:
   Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing — this helps it set.
   Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream or avocado slices.

💡 Quick Tips

• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.

• Want it creamier? Add a layer of refried beans or sour cream between the tortilla layers.

• Spice level too mild? Add a few sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

• Freezer-friendly! Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze up to 3 months before baking.

🌶 Introduction

This Mexican Lasagna is everything you love about tacos and enchiladas — layered like lasagna and baked into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece.

It’s a dinner that always brings people to the table. Whether it’s game night, potluck, or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and a little fiesta in every slice.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Step 1: Brown & Season the Meat

Start by sautéing ground beef and onions until browned. Add garlic, taco seasoning, and chili powder to create a rich Tex-Mex base.

Tip: Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Step 2: Add Veggies & Sauce

Mix in beans, corn, tomatoes, and salsa. Let it simmer until thickened — this step deepens the flavors and makes the filling extra hearty.

Step 3: Layer Like a Pro

Think of it like building lasagna — beef, tortillas, cheese, repeat! Use flour tortillas for softness or corn tortillas for a more authentic Mexican flavor.

Step 4: Bake & Melt

Cover with foil to lock in moisture, then uncover for the final golden, bubbly cheese finish.

🧅 Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips

• Ground Beef: Use lean (90/10) for less grease. Sub with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian versions.

• Beans: Black beans add fiber and richness; pinto beans work too.

• Corn: Adds sweetness and color — optional but recommended!

• Salsa: Use mild, medium, or spicy based on your heat preference.

• Tortillas: Both flour and corn work — flour gives a soft lasagna-like texture, corn adds rustic flavor.

• Cheese: The melty magic — use Mexican blend, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for spice.

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked rice for a heartier meal

• ½ cup sour cream mixed into the filling for extra creaminess

🧀 Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations:

• Chicken Mexican Lasagna: Use shredded chicken instead of ground beef.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and double the beans or add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini.

• Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with fresh guacamole and a side of Mexican rice or cauliflower rice.

• Pair with a lime margarita or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing combo.

• Top with fresh pico de gallo or cilantro-lime crema for a restaurant-style touch.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

• Store: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Assemble (unbaked) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

• Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, or microwave individual portions.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated)

Calories: 490 kcal | Carbs: 28g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 720mg

Dietary Highlights: High-Protein | Comfort Food | Customizable

Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten (if using flour tortillas).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use enchilada sauce instead of salsa?
A: Absolutely — enchilada sauce adds a smoother, richer flavor.

Q: How do I make it less spicy for kids?
A: Use mild taco seasoning, mild salsa, and skip the chili powder.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the beef and add extra beans, corn, and veggies for a hearty plant-based casserole.

❤️ Story Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of a love for both lasagna and tacos — why choose when you can have both? It’s one of those dishes that feels festive and comforting at the same time.

The first time I made it for a family gathering, it disappeared before I even got seconds. Since then, it’s been my go-to for potlucks and cozy dinners. Every layer tells a story — bold, warm, and full of love.

💬 Reader Interaction

Tried this Mexican Lasagna?
Tag your creation with #TexMexKitchenMagic or share your favorite toppings below!
Do you love it with guac, jalapeños, or extra cheese? Let’s taco ‘bout it! 🌮💛